It’s hard to relax while traveling when you are constantly on the lookout for scammers and thieves. It seems like everyone is trying to steal your identity these days. Apart from identity theft monitoring, there are several tips to consider to protect your identity and documents. Below are steps to protect your identity while traveling.
Protect Your Passport
Keep your passport in a secure place, preferably with you. While some people check their passport into the hotel safe, it’s not a bad idea to carry it with you as well. When going out of your hotel, have one form of ID in your wallet. It will help if you separate your money from your wallet. Place your cash in a travel pack or hidden pouch for safety. You can also keep copies of documents at home or with someone trusted. It will come in handy when you need to replace your passport.
Don’t Use Public Wi-Fi Networks or Computers
Avoid public computers for online banking or emailing sensitive information. Hackers often use public computers to get your personal information. If you need to check bank statements or conduct other sensitive activities, rely on your laptop or the computer in your hotel room. Public Wi-Fi networks can also be unsafe, so avoid accessing any private accounts while connected to them.
Get More Information About Hotel Security
Check the website of any hotel before booking to see if they have security cameras installed. You can always ask if there are security cameras when you’re checking in. If they have them, it is best to be aware of their locations and vision fields before carrying sizeable sums of cash or storing important documents.
Turn Off Your Phone
If your phone is stolen, thieves can get access to all your contacts and information on the device. It’s best to keep it turned off when not in use so that you decrease the chance of being hacked. If someone tries calling or texting you while traveling, consider ignoring their requests until after your journey. Only respond to emergency calls and messages.
Avoid Carrying All Your Cards
Carry only one credit card and keep it in a safe location. Many people travel with multiple credit cards in case one is declined. However, it’s safer to only have one card with you when traveling abroad. If someone steals your wallet or purse, they’ll have access to all your credit cards. When you only have one card with you, they won’t be able to run up charges on multiple accounts.
Carrying just one card also makes it easier for police officers or anyone else who finds your wallet to know how they can contact you.
Get Help
Ask someone back home to forward important mail while you’re away. If you need to send someone important a package while you’re gone, request someone who’s staying behind to send it for you. It should be the same person you give a list of trusted contacts, in case of anything.
With these tips in mind, you can enjoy your trip and not have to worry about thieves stealing your valuables and accessing private information.