Avoid Getting Burned by Scams this Summer: Apply Visa Security Tips (and Sunscreen)

SAN FRANCISCO, June 27, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- With the summer travel season in full swing, Visa (NYSE: V) is offering consumers tips on how to protect themselves from card fraud during their vacations. The website www.VisaSecuritySense.com provides helpful information for cardholders on how to protect their account information and resolve unauthorized card use.

While enjoying summer vacations, it's also important to know that most U.S. card issuers provide important consumer protections including fraud liability protection and dispute resolution. Although most payment card transactions go through without problems, savvy consumers can visit www.VisaSecuritySense.com to learn how to better protect themselves from being inconvenienced by unauthorized purchases.

"By spending a few moments building card security into their travel plans, summer vacationers can enjoy even greater peace of mind," said Eduardo Perez, Global Head of Payment System Risk.

The site includes summer travel tips consumers should keep in mind:

• If traveling outside the United States, inform the bank that issued your card which countries you will be visiting, and for how long.
• Keep a copy of your bank's name, its customer service phone numbers, and your Visa account number in a convenient place – separate from your card. Toll-free numbers may not work internationally. If you don't have the bank's direct number, dial Visa's help line at 1-800-VISA-911 or 1-303-967-1096.
• Report lost or stolen cards and/or unauthorized transactions to your financial institution issuer immediately.
• Limit the number of payment cards and other personal information that you carry in your wallet or purse.
• Be aware of your surroundings when entering your Personal Identification Number (PIN) at an ATM or at the checkout.
• Don't leave your cards in your car's glove compartment. An alarming number of payment card thefts are from car glove compartments.
• Save and check all receipts against your statement.

Cardholders can also turn to www.VisaSecuritySense.com for news about fraud scams, access helpful resources or find help to resolve problems.

SOURCE Visa