How to prevent credit card fraud? Should I enable travel notifications?

Home > Finance & Payments > content

PM 23:07 2025/04/22

Credit card security is crucial when traveling in China. Here are some practical tips for international tourists:

Protect Card Information:
Do not disclose your credit card number, CVV code (the 3-digit number on the back), or expiration date to others, including inquiries over the phone or online.
When checking out at restaurants or stores, try to swipe the card yourself instead of letting the server handle it alone.
Avoid Public Wi-Fi Transactions:
Do not conduct payment operations on public networks (such as free Wi-Fi in hotels or cafes). It is recommended to use mobile data or a VPN.
Regularly Check Statements:
Check your transaction records daily through your bank’s app. If you notice any suspicious transactions, contact your bank immediately to freeze the card.

Chip Cards and Contactless Payments:
China widely supports chip cards (EMV standard) and contactless payments (such as UnionPay QuickPass, Apple Pay). Chip cards are more secure compared to magnetic stripe cards.
Bind Mobile Payment Tools:
Link your credit card to Alipay or WeChat Pay, and pay directly by scanning a code. These platforms use encryption technology and do not require showing your physical card to merchants.

Through the bank's app, temporarily lower the single or daily transaction limit, and activate real-time SMS/email alert functions to ensure you are aware of every transaction.

Common Scam Scenarios:
Fake calls from banks or hotels asking for card information.
False Wi-Fi hotspots that induce connection and steal information.
Counterfeit payment pages (such as scenic ticket booking websites).
Countermeasures:
Operate only through official channels (such as the bank’s official website or the 12306 railway official website) and avoid clicking on links in text messages or emails.

Carry a small amount of cash (RMB) as a backup, as some small merchants may only accept cash payments.
You can apply for a prepaid travel card (such as a UnionPay Travel Card) in advance, depositing a fixed amount to reduce risks.

Strongly recommend activating travel notifications! This is a key step to prevent your credit card from being frozen due to unusual transactions.

The bank’s risk control system monitors transactions in different locations. If it detects foreign consumption (for example, switching from your usual residence to China), it may automatically freeze the card.
After activating travel notifications, the bank will mark your trip as "legitimate spending," avoiding misjudgment.

Through the Bank App or Website: Most international banks (such as Visa, Mastercard issuing banks) offer online submission of travel notifications. You need to fill in your travel dates, destination countries (China), and cities.
Phone Notification: Call the bank's customer service hotline (make sure to confirm international roaming fees) and provide your passport number, travel schedule, etc.

Cover All Destinations: If you plan to travel to multiple cities in China (such as Beijing → Shanghai → Chengdu), all cities and dates must be noted in the notification.
Validity Matches Your Trip: Ensure that the travel notification dates cover your entire trip in China to avoid being frozen halfway.

UnionPay Cards Are More Widely Accepted: Visa/Mastercard are generally usable in high-end hotels and international brand stores, but smaller cities or local merchants may only support UnionPay. It is recommended to carry a UnionPay card as a backup.
Emergency Contact Information:
Record the international customer service phone number of your bank (such as +1-800-xxx-xxxx) and save it in your phone's notes.
Within China, you can call the UnionPay customer service hotline at 95516 (requires Chinese communication; you can seek help from the hotel front desk).
Some Scenarios Require Cash:
Taxis, street vendors, and scenic spot tickets may not allow card payments. It is recommended to exchange 500-1000 RMB in cash for emergencies.

Go Back

49K

13w