Keep that key card

Published: 14 May, 2010

• HOW many readers are aware that every time they stay at a hotel all their information is stored on their magnetic key card?
When you hand the card in at the front desk your personal information, including credit card number, is there for any employee to access by simply scanning it. The bottom line is: keep the card, take it home with you or destroy it. Never leave it behind in the room or in the rubbish bin. And never hand it back at the front desk when you check out.
The hotel will not charge you for the card. If you have a small magnet, pass it across the magnetic strip several times on leaving and then try it on the hotel room door. It should erase everything.
GEORGE DURACK
Islington Pensioners Forum
N1