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Missing credit cards in Panama
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Although pick-pocketing is not common in Panama, it may happen. Alternatively, you may lose your wallet or suddenly find it sinking to the bottom of the Panama Canal. It is best to be prepared.
Upon realizing that your wallet is missing, immediately contact your credit card companies to block or cancel your card. Report the situation to the closest police precinct as credit card companies may ask for a copy of the filed police report. Police officers, in a variety of uniforms depending on their role, are often in major tourist areas and shopping centers.
Emergency contact information
American Express: telephone in Panama: 207-1100, telephone in the United States: 1-800-111-0006.
MasterCard: collect call from Panama: (001)636-722-7111, telephone in the United States: 1-800-307-7309
Visa: collect call from Panama: 410-902-8022, telephone in the United States: 1-800-847-2911
Tips
Other credit cards are not widely accepted in Panama and should be left at home or in your locked hotel room.
Make a list of your credit cards, including the company of each and their contact information. Photocopy this list and keep it in a separate place from your wallet or purse. If you decide to include any additional information, such as numbers or pin codes, devise a system (e.g., number sequences written backwards) so someone cannot immediately steal this important information.
1-800 numbers will not work in Panama, even if calling with an international calling card. Make sure you have the emergency collect number or in-country number available.
Realize that the recovery of your wallet is unlikely, so do not carry all credit cards, identification, cash, and documents in this location. Wallets should not be kept in your back pocket.
Many credit card companies can send you a replacement card or wire you money. Western Union also is found in many locations around Panama and money can be sent by a friend or family member quickly to one of their offices. However, you will need to present identification in order to pick up the money.
Be smart and don’t let your wallet fall through the railing at the Canal!
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