"A thief only needs seconds." That’s what a financial crimes investigator told me over coffee once. And it stuck. Because when you’re sipping a cappuccino in Paris, hiking in Sedona, or just lounging at home in Siesta Key, the last thing you want is a gut-punch from your banking app. You check your balance, and bam. A charge you definitely didn’t make.
Sound familiar? If it hasn’t happened to you yet, count yourself lucky—but stay ready. Fraud happens fast, and when you're away from home, it can feel even more unsettling.
In this post, we're walking step-by-step through what to do immediately if you see a suspicious charge while you're traveling. We’ll also show you how to lock down your account, get reimbursed, and avoid having your vacation derailed by digital pickpockets.
First, breathe. Then act.
When you see a charge you don’t recognize, time is of the essence. Banks and card issuers often have fraud protection policies that limit your liability only if you act quickly.
This creates a paper trail and helps your bank investigate the charge faster.
Most banks let you instantly lock or freeze your card via their app or website. This prevents more fraudulent transactions while you investigate.
Using Liberty Savings Bank? Open the mobile app, go to your card settings, and tap "Freeze Card." Boom. Done.
Don't worry—this doesn't cancel your card. It's a temporary freeze that buys you time.
Now it’s time to report the charge. Call your bank or use secure messaging in the mobile app.
If you bank with Liberty, call our fraud response line or use the chat feature in the app for rapid service.
Pro Tip: Always travel with your bank’s contact info saved in your phone and written down. If your phone is stolen, you’ll still have access.
Fraudsters rarely stop at one charge. Review your last few days (or weeks) of transactions. Look for small, recurring charges too—these are often tests.
If you see anything else suspicious, report it during your call.
Most banks will reverse a fraudulent charge if reported promptly.
If the charge is confirmed as fraud, your card number has likely been compromised. Request a new card immediately.
Travel tip: Ask your bank to expedite shipping or offer a digital card you can use instantly in your mobile wallet.
Set transaction alerts via email or text. Monitor your account daily while traveling.
Bonus tip: Only use secure Wi-Fi connections. Don’t check your bank account on public or hotel Wi-Fi unless you're using a VPN.
If you believe your card was physically stolen, or if someone gained access to your phone or wallet, file a police report. This can help with fraud claims and is often required for travel insurance reimbursement.
Sometimes, it’s a charge you forgot about or didn’t recognize due to a different merchant name. If the bank rules it not fraud, you still have options:
Travel should be joyful, not stressful. And while fraud can strike anywhere, being prepared makes all the difference. Locking your card, reporting charges, and working with your bank quickly ensures you can get back to what matters—your trip.
Whether you’re thousands of miles away or road-tripping through Florida, Liberty Savings Bank has your back. We’re here to help you stay secure, confident, and protected wherever you go.
Safe travels—and keep an eye on those statements!