Avoid Travel Scams and Keep Your Money Safe While You’re Away
Whether you’re planning a cruise, a spring getaway, or international travel, your focus should be on adventure, not worrying about scams or card issues. Unfortunately, travel booking scams and fraud attempts often spike during peak travel planning seasons.
At NW Plus Credit Union, we’re committed to helping members detect and avoid fraud, and use smart tools and security features that make traveling easier, safer, and more rewarding.
Common Travel & Cruise Scams to Watch For
Scammers may pose as cruise lines, travel agents, or online travel deal sites and try to lure you with “too-good-to-be-true” offers. Be wary of:
- Unsolicited travel deals via email or social platforms
- Claims you must pay immediately via gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency
- Fake confirmations containing official-looking links
Prepare Your Accounts Before You Go
Before you leave, take a few simple steps with NW Plus so you and your cards are both prepared:
Let Us Know Your Travel Plans
Contact NW Plus ahead of your trip. This helps prevent unnecessary card declines when charges appear from unexpected locations abroad or on cruise line systems.
Set Up Alerts & Monitoring
Through your NW Plus accounts, you can receive transaction alerts and monitor activity in real time, giving you confidence and control over spending abroad.
With proper Alert settings, you will be notified immediately of any activity on your card.
Tools & Features That Keep You Secure on the Go
CARDS+ Debit card control is in the 'cards' tab of the NW Plus mobile app. CARDS+ gives you powerful debit card management tools:
- Instantly freeze or unfreeze your card
- Set geographic controls to help limit where your card can be used
- Restrict by merchant or transaction type
- Add spending limits and real-time alerts
See detailed transaction info and spending trends right in the app.
These controls are especially helpful when you’re traveling, giving you security and peace of mind.
Whatever account you choose, NW Plus CU debit cards can be added to your favorite digital wallet (like Apple Pay or Google Wallet) and managed securely in the NW Plus CU mobile app. This security feature allows you to leave your card at home or leave it in your wallet. Also, you can use tap to pay on your card or phone to avoid the danger presented by card skimmers.
Safe Travel Habits to Follow
Even with great security features, some smart habits go a long way:
- Avoid public Wi-Fi when accessing banking apps or any other site you want to keep private
- Use secure ATMs in well-lit, reputable locations
- Check your accounts regularly while traveling
- Carry only the cards you need
- If you ever suspect fraud or lose a card while away, contacting NW Plus or utilizing CARDS+ quickly helps limit any potential impact.
Travel with Confidence. Start with NW Plus
Scams and fraud shouldn’t ruin your travel plans. With proactive preparation, secure account tools like CARDS+, and the helpful support of NW Plus Credit Union, you can focus on exploring, not worrying.
Planning a trip soon? Reach out to NW Plus before you go. We’ll help you review your accounts, enable helpful protections, and make sure you’re set up to travel smart and secure.
