A recent study by the Nilson Report found that victims of credit card, debit card and prepaid card fraud internationally lost an estimated $22.80 billion USD in 2016.1 Identity theft occurs when criminals fraudulently use existing bank accounts or credit cards of a victim. In some cases, criminals may even open up new accounts under a victim’s name. Criminals often access a victim’s credit card, bank accounts or sensitive personal information through a variety of means, including credit card skimming which is a method by which thieves steal your credit card information through the use of public wireless networks. An international rise in credit card usage has made credit card skimming a growing concern. A card holder’s information can be skimmed, or copied, at any location that accepts credit or debit cards such as restaurants, convenience stores, retail stores or unsecure ATMs. Often criminals will also attach a small device to the register at a location or ATM that will save a victim’s card information, which is later used to make fraudulent purchases. Even for cards that require a Personal Identification Number (PIN), criminals have been known to attach cameras to nearby locations that can capture hand movements used to decipher PIN codes. Additionally, account information can be skimmed by cashiers while processing a payment.
Anyone can fall victim to identity fraud given the numerous methods of stealing personal financial information. While many victims are able to work with their banking institutions to identify and void fraudulent activity, stolen financial information could result in more long-term financial consequences. Identity theft can also have a lasting and damaging impact on a victim’s finances. For example, thieves may default on large sums of consumer debt that negatively affect credit scores, which in turn may impact numerous aspects of an individual’s financial life, such as social security income credits or the availability of government-sponsored financial aid to attend universities. To avoid becoming a victim of credit card theft, travelers are advised to use a combination of preventative and precautionary measures. Prior to travel, individuals are advised to inform their banking institution of the duration and location of their trip and are encouraged to set up spending alerts that may help flag suspicious activity. While traveling, individuals are advised to limit usage of their cards and to only use secure ATMs, which are located inside of banks and often fitted with security cameras. If the use of credit cards is necessary, travelers should exercise extra caution and ensure their purchase is made within eyesight to mitigate employee theft of customer information. Monitoring credit card usage in real-time, as well as reviewing monthly credit card statements, may also help catch any irregular expenditures.
AIG Travel, Inc., a member of American International Group, Inc., is a worldwide leader in travel insurance and global assistance. Travel Guard® is the marketing name for its portfolio of travel insurance and travel-related services, including medical and security services, marketed to both leisure and business travelers around the globe. Services are provided through a network of wholly owned service centers located in Asia, Europe and the Americas. For additional information, please visit our websites at www.aig.com/travel and www.travelguard.com.