Like some others, I was told I was affected by the Equifax Security Breech some months ago. So, I froze my accounts with all 3 Credit Bureaus. Today I attempted to open a new Savings Account at a bank and was told their was a "lock." It's no big deal for this. But, in 3 weeks, we are traveling to Italy. I don't want to try to withdraw Euros at an ATM or use my credit cards and be told my accounts are frozen, left with no money abroad, etc. I called Equifax and the bank for my checking account (debit card), They said it only involves Credit check situations and not existing account transactions. I don't really want to unfreeze my Credit Bureau locks if I don';'t have to to protect myself. Yet, I don't want to be locked out of debit and credit cards in Sicily either. Has anyone been in my situation yet ? URGENT.
Posted by
Rick Steves' Europe
16895 posts
I buy their explanation. Opening a new account requires a credit check but withdrawing from your current account is a direct communication between banks and their Visa or MasterCard middleman, just like any withdrawal you might make from ATMs closer to home.
Posted by
Indiana
950 posts
I have a credit freeze in place with all of the bureaus. I have traveled all over Europe and have never had any problems using a credit card at an establishment that takes them. Many of the smaller businesses do not accept AMEX cards, but Visa is never problematic. No issues at an ATM either.
Posted by
Bainbridge Island
3299 posts
It is not a problem.
The credit freeze prevents others from accessing your credit score or opening new accounts in your name. It does NOT affect use of your existing accounts, whether debit or credit, at all.
Just make sure you notify each bank or credit card company of your foreign travel dates. Failure to do that could leave you locked out of access while in Europe.
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23653 posts
Credit freezes and access to personal banking accounts are two completely different animals. If your personal accounts were frozen for any reason it would make no difference if accessing from within the US or Europe. You are OK as long as you currently have access to your accounts.
Posted by
NW Ohio
347 posts
I too placed a lock on my credit reports for the same reason.
I just returned from 5 weeks in Italy. I used my debit card to withdraw cash. I used a credit card to make purchases. No problems.