Money and account safety tips for traveling

• Update the software on your devices and backup your data.
• Turn-on multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all accounts that offer it.
  
  
  • For personal Wells Fargo accounts, visit How to set up 2-step verification at sign-on.
  • If you’re traveling internationally, consider using an RSA SecurID^® device in case digital access codes aren’t available.
• Turn off auto-connect for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
• Disable GPS location access when apps aren’t in use.
• Review app and device permissions, and limit access to things like your location, camera, and microphone.

For more information on how to secure your device, visit Wells Fargo security best practices for individuals.

• Know your card’s Personal Identification Number (PIN) and daily withdrawal limits to ease travel, especially abroad. PINs are required at ATMs and some unattended terminals like ticket kiosks, parking lots, and gas stations. For more info, visit credit card information and debit card information.

• Turn on debit, credit card, and other alerts to spot issues quickly. Choose push, text, or email notifications, keep your contact details current, and contact us right away if something seems suspicious.

• If you’re traveling abroad, check with your mobile carrier about international calling and text options.
• Save your bank and credit card international phone numbers and keep them stored separately from your cards.

• Make copies of your passport, driver’s license, and the front and back of the debit and credit cards you’re bringing on your trip. Store them in a safe place or on a secure, password–protected device in case anything is lost or stolen.

• Bills and other documents containing sensitive info may increase your chances of identity theft if bad actors get their hands on these documents while you are traveling. To reduce your risk, set up automatic bill payments and place a mail hold with the U.S. Postal Service.

• Carry a backup payment option in a separate bag in case your wallet is lost or stolen. If you’re a Wells Fargo customer, you can also add eligible debit and credit cards to a digital wallet so you can pay easily in stores, in apps, or online with your mobile device.

• Wells Fargo customers can report a lost or stolen card and request a replacement online. If your card was added to a digital wallet and you still have your device, we may be able to update it with your new card so you can keep using your digital wallet while you wait for the replacement.
• If your phone or device is lost or stolen, call  us at 1-800-956-4442 so we can turn off biometric sign on or digital wallet. Use Find My iPhone or Android’s Find my Device to lock your device remotely.

• Avoid accessing your financial accounts on public Wi-Fi, like in coffee shops or airports. If you need to connect, use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to secure your internet connection.

• Turn off Bluetooth when you’re not using it. This helps prevent others from connecting to your device and accessing your information without you knowing.

• Avoid using public USB charging ports at places like airports, hotel lobbies, and cafes. USB ports transfer both power and data, so an attacker could use a compromised port to access your data, install malware, or take control of your device.
  
  
  • Pro tip: Use a wall charger or portable power bank instead.

• Phishing attempts tend to spike during travel, so make sure you are only using official apps and websites when booking or managing travel.
• Be especially cautious of security alerts while traveling. Scammers may fake messages about suspicious account activity.

For more info, visit the Tips to help avoid common threats and scams and the Tips to avoid bank imposter scams pages.

Avoid sharing travel pictures, your location, or travel plans on social media. These details can make it easier for thieves to track where you are and time a crime.

• Review your card purchases, ATM withdrawals, and international charges, and report suspicious or unexpected charges or account activity right away.

• Double-check all of your communication records (emails, text messages, and other forms of communication) and note anything that seems unusual.

• Run malware and security scans on your devices to check for anything harmful that may have been picked up while using different networks during your travels.