Did you end up getting charged for the snacks, or did the bank block it completely? I've had similar weirdness—once bought tires online from a legit site and got flagged, but then some random overseas purchase went through no questions asked. Makes me wonder if certain types of purchases trigger their system more than others. Maybe gas stations in remote areas are just red flags? Anyway, did calling them clear it up right away, or did you have to wait a while?
Had something similar happen to me once, but I'm not convinced it's just about remote gas stations. I was on a road trip, stopped at a big-name gas station right off the freeway—totally normal spot—and my card got flagged immediately. But then, weirdly enough, I bought some random souvenir online from a tiny overseas vendor and nothing happened... went right through. Makes me think maybe it's more about spending patterns than locations? Like sudden small purchases after bigger ones raising eyebrows? Banks work in mysterious ways...
Yeah, banks definitely have their own logic sometimes. I've seen similar stuff happen—like my card got flagged after buying groceries at a store I visit every week, yet when I booked a random Airbnb overseas... nothing. It probably does come down to patterns and algorithms picking up unusual activity rather than just locations alone. Frustrating for sure, but honestly I'd rather they be overly cautious than too lax about it. At least they're looking out for us, even if it feels random sometimes.
I've had similar weird experiences with my bank too. Like last summer, I was on a road trip and stopped at a gas station literally just two towns over from where I live—card instantly flagged. Had to spend 20 mins on the phone sorting it out. But then, a month later, I booked a hotel halfway across the country... nothing happened. Go figure.
Honestly though, even if it's annoying at times, I'd rather deal with that minor inconvenience than have someone drain my account while I'm out exploring. One thing I've found helpful is giving my bank a heads-up before traveling or making bigger purchases outside my usual pattern. Most banks let you set travel notices online or through their app now, which seems to help cut down on those random flags. Worth trying if you haven't already—saved me from some headaches lately.
Haha, banks are so random sometimes. Ever wonder if they're just spinning a wheel to decide what's fraud and what's not? But seriously, better safe than sorry... ever tried using virtual cards for sketchy online buys? Saved me more than once.
