Joan’s Advice on... Lost or stolen cards

Our dependence on credit and debits cards nowadays means that when your card is lost of stolen abroad it can be a disaster. Sometimes it is not even lost or stolen but a block can be put on a card by an issuer if there are unusual transactions.

Before you travel, it is a good idea to contact your card issuer and let them know where you are going, for how long and give them your mobile number.

AIB have introduced a text service for verifying transactions out of the ordinary. You only have to text back Y or N to clarify that it is you.

Always make copies of your cards and keep that information separate and safe when travelling. Also bring the helpline number with you and put in your telephone for safe-keeping.

Chip and PIN cards have reduced the level of abuse of cards, but do be careful using cards in places like internet cafes, where Spyware can be tracking your numbers.

Banks operate a 24-hour service for reporting stolen or lost cards and arrangements can be made to replace your card quickly. The speedier the replacement the more it will cost.

In some cases it may be possible to get money to you via bank transfer or wire transfer services such as Western Union. It depends on where you are travelling in the world.

Hotels will often allow someone else to pay your bill. Generally they will need a third-party authorisation signed by the person lending their card for the transaction and in some cases copies of the front and back of the card. Some travel insurance will cover your for the replacement cost of your credit and debit cards. It is always useful to have more than one card to rely on.

See Ask Joan online at irishtimes.com/life-and-style/travel

Send queries to jscales@irishtimes.com