Cross-Border Banking

From U.S. Federal Reserve Bank of New York

Customers who bank with U.S. depository institutions enjoy some of the best and strongest consumer protection laws and deposit insurance available in the world. These safeguards include laws and regulation designed to ensure that:

Interest rates charged for loans or paid on deposits are explained truthfully and clearly
Bank deposits are insured

Personal and confidential information is used and handled appropriately
Depository institutions are managed in a safe and sound manner and in full compliance with applicable federal and state laws and regulations

If U.S. banks and depository institutions fail to adhere to laws and regulations to protect depositors, you can file complaints with federal or state regulators.

The open nature of the Internet makes it easier for you to get information on financial products and services offered by banks and financial institutions from around the country and the world. Thus it is important to remember that if you do business with institutions outside the United States:
Your transactions may not be protected by United States or state laws or regulations, and your deposits may not be insured
Instead, the laws and regulations of the foreign bank's home country may apply
Consequently, it is wise to know a foreign bank's reputation before you decide to open an account or purchase financial products or services. This includes learning where the institution is located or chartered and what kinds of consumer protection, if any, the bank's home country offers.

Most banks provide information on their Web site about where they are located and how to contact them by telephone, in person, or by postal mail. Do not hesitate to contact them if you still have questions about consumer protections after reading on-line materials.