Embassy of the United States

Information for Travelers

Crime And Credit Cards

Inflation, unemployment and the breakdown of the social fabric have contributed to an increase in violent crime. Americans, and other foreigners, are seen as particularly choice targets. You should take all due precautions to safeguard your belongings, especially in hotel rooms, on trains and in public places. If you are the victim of a crime, report it immediately to the local police and to the Consular Section.

In the Consular Section, we have a number of brochures on travel safety in general.

Georgia is largely a cash economy. Traveler's checks and credit cards are accepted at only a few locations. You should be extremely careful in protecting your cash. If you are traveling with your family, you may want to distribute your money among the members of your family and have each person use several hiding places. When you are able to use your credit card, you should exercise caution to make sure the clerk or attendant does not keep a copy of the impression made from your credit card or write down the card number. You should request that any carbons made of the credit card impression be given to you. You should also verify all charges made to your card to prevent unauthorized use of your credit card number. If your credit card is stolen, you should call the appropriate number in the U.S. below to cancel it immediately:

American Express: 800-528-2121(212)687-3700
Visa: 800-336-8472(415) 574-7700
Mastercard: 800-888-7858(314)275-6690
Diners Club: 800-525-9150(303)792-0629

Traffic safety is also something all travelers should keep in mind. Roads in Georgia may be in very poor condition and unlit. Traffic signals, when actually working, and rules of the road are often completely ignored. Motorists race about recklessly and at excessive speeds. Pedestrians enjoy no right of way and are advised to be cautious when crossing streets.