Money, cards and ATMs in Pakistan

Cards

• Credit card fraud is common. The FCDO and Global Affairs Canada say so independently, which is about as strong as a warning of this kind gets.
• Keep the card in sight, use machines inside banks and hotels rather than on the street, and check your statement while you are still in the country.

Cash and what people steal

• Cell phones, credit cards and passports are the favourite targets of pickpockets, in Canada's wording. Pakistan is a cash economy in daily life, so you will carry some; carry it in more than one place.
• Avoid showing signs of affluence. British nationals of Pakistani origin in particular are targeted by criminals as being perceived to be wealthier than locals.
• In a car, keep valuables out of sight, windows closed and doors locked.

Documents

• There is an active black market in forged and stolen passports, which is the practical reason to keep yours in the hotel safe and carry a copy plus other photo ID.
• Always carry photo ID. You can be asked for it and detained until you can produce it.