Debit Card Travel Notice

A significant portion of debit card fraud occurs at merchants and locations outside of the United States. For that reason, Farmers Bank & Trust automatically limits the use of your debit card to locations within the United States. Whether you are using the Internet to shop at an overseas merchant, or you are traveling in another country, your card will not work unless you make arrangements with us ahead of time.

If you plan to travel to countries outside the United States, or you need to shop at a foreign merchant via the Internet, please call or stop in any Farmers Bank & Trust office. If you plan to travel somewhere within the United States that is not common for your usual transactions, we also advise you to let the Bank know or submit a travel notice for your debit card via MyFarmers Debit Card Manager. We can make arrangements to remove the restriction from your card for a pre-determined period of time.

We apologize in advance if this procedure creates some additional burden and inconvenience. It is far better, though, compared to the burden and inconvenience created by identity thefts and fraudulent transactions that are most prevalent at foreign locations and websites.

EMV or Chipped Debit Cards

EMV stands for Europay, MasterCard, and Visa and is commonly referred to as a chip card. The chip within the card stores account information more securely, and the technology itself provides protection against fraudsters creating a replica of your card. Farmers Bank & Trust has started the process of migrating new and replacement debit cards to EMV in 2017.

What does a chip card look like? A chip card is the same size, shape, and weight as your current debit card. The main differences you’ll notice include a chip on the front of the card, and the card will need to be inserted in the store or ATM terminal to read. Chip cards will have a chip on the front and a magnetic stripe on the back, for the foreseeable future.



Debit Card Fraud Protection

Safely navigate the fraud jungle by understanding the various ways fraudsters try to obtain your personal and debit card information.

The more you know, the more you can guard yourself against fraud. Follow these tips and guidelines for preventing fraud.

Personal Information

Phishing is a scam in which fraudsters pose as legitimate businesses to trick you into divulging your Social Security number, account numbers, passwords or other sensitive personal data.

No legitimate business will request this type of information. Don’t give out your personal information.

Card Safety

Debit cards are accepted virtually everywhere you use cash and many places where checks aren’t accepted.

  • Use your PIN whenever possible for an extra layer of protection.
  • Set up fraud alerts through online banking and mobile apps.
  • Review financial accounts and monthly statements.
  • Sign your card on the signature panel.
  • Report lost or stolen debit cards immediately to your financial institution.


ATM Security

Be vigilant at ATMs. If something seems suspicious, contact your financial institution. Cover the PIN pad with your hand while entering your PIN.

  • Use familiar ATMs in well-lit areas.
  • Watch for shoulder surfing — a camera positioned to obtain your card number. This may look
  • like a small hole drilled above the keypad.
  • Look for skimmers placed over the ATM card slot.
  • Do not use the ATM if the card slot or keypad looks suspicious.


Online Shopping

When shopping online, be aware of ways to avoid undue risk and keep your personal information free from fraud.

  • Shop with trusted brands. Look for the green padlock icon and HTTPS:// to ensure you’re on a secure website.
  • Never give private information, such as your Social Security number, passwords or birth date, to anyone online.
  • Create strong passwords with more than eight characters, an uppercase letter and at least one number or special character.
  • Use and update firewall software to protect your computer's information.
  • Avoid free or special product offers — these are usually too good to be true.