Summer Travel & ATM Safety

Summer is a season of exploration, road trips, family reunions, bucket-list destinations, and weekend escapes. As you pack your bags and plan your route, it’s just as important to prepare your finances for the journey. Whether you're flying across the country or driving just a few towns over, a few simple steps can help keep your money and identity safe while you're away from home.

At TAPCO, your security travels with you. We've put together a few important tips to help you use your debit and credit cards confidently on the go.

Stay Aware at ATMs

If you need cash while traveling, try to use ATMs in well-lit, high-traffic areas, ideally inside a bank or credit union. Before inserting your card, take a moment to inspect the machine. If anything looks loose, damaged, or tampered with, especially around the card reader or keypad, it could be a sign of a skimming device. When in doubt, walk away and find another location.

Let TAPCO Know Before You Go

One of the easiest ways to avoid interruptions in card access while traveling is to submit a travel notice ahead of time. This alerts us that your out-of-town transactions are expected, which can reduce the chance of fraud alerts or declined purchases. You can set a travel notice easily through Online Banking.

Choose the Right Card for Each Purchase

While both debit and credit cards are convenient, credit cards often provide stronger fraud protections and fewer risks if your information is compromised. Consider using your credit card for hotel check-ins, gas stations, rental cars, or unfamiliar retailers, and save your debit card for everyday purchases where you feel more secure.

Keep an Eye on Your Accounts

No matter how far you roam, it’s important to check your accounts regularly. TAPCO’s mobile app makes it easy to monitor your balance, set custom alerts, and lock or unlock your cards instantly. This kind of real-time access gives you peace of mind and a quick response if something doesn’t look right.

Stay Private, Stay Protected

While you're traveling, you may encounter phone calls, texts, or emails that appear to be from your financial institution. Remember, TAPCO will never ask for your card number, PIN, or account details through those channels. If you receive a suspicious message, don't respond. Instead, contact us directly to confirm.

Whether you’re relaxing at the lake or navigating a new city, we want you to enjoy your summer with confidence. If anything seems out of place or you need help while you're away, reach out, we’re here to help keep your finances secure, no matter where life takes you.