According to the UK payments association Apacs, cases of credit card fraud abroad are increasing.

Consumers have been urged to take care with their credit card details, both when using them in the UK and when going overseas.

Its figures show that 40% of all plastic card fraud losses between January and June 2008 were the result of fraud abroad.

A female spokesperson for the organisation said criminals are obtaining the card details of UK consumers and using them in countries that do not have Chip and PIN technology.

Your card can be used abroad even when you’re not,

she warned.

You are getting cards being compromised in the UK and then going abroad without you.

The spokesperson advised consumers to make sure their credit card provider has their correct contact details, enabling them to get in touch if they suspect fraudulent activity.

However, the most important anti-fraud measures to take, she stressed, are simply to keep PINs and passwords safe and to check all statements thoroughly.

Consumers looking for a better rate of interest or more attractive rewards on their credit cards could consider switching to a different provider.