Whether it’s with your friends or family, vacation time is all about leaving your worries behind and focusing on the fun. But with identity theft on the rise, you’ll want to take extra precautions to make sure thieves don’t make fun of your card.
Fortunately, there are a few things you can do during your travels to keep your information safe and ensure you don̵
7;t become a victim of identity theft.Pre-planning is key
Limit what you have in your wallet on vacation. This means removing extra credit cards, your Social Security card, and any documents that may have personal information on them. Likewise, don’t travel with your checkbook or debit card as the process to recover fraudulent charges can be lengthy if your information is stolen. Consider purchasing an RFID wallet to store your cards while traveling.
Use your hotel locker
Place important documents and credit cards you don’t need in your hotel locker. Never assume that a locked room will prevent thieves from rummaging through your belongings.
Be careful with computer use
Whether you brought your own computer or plan to use an Internet cafe, don’t assume that all Internet connections are secure. Avoid accessing online banking or personal accounts with sensitive information when in public places.
Don’t trust a locked car
Even if the car is locked, it does not make it less susceptible to theft. Never leave personal information and belongings in your car, whether visible or in the glove compartment. Carry only what you need and leave the rest in your hotel locker.
Don’t forget your home
Before you go, be sure to stop the mail service or ask a friend or neighbor to pick up your mail each day. For identity thieves, a mailbox is a treasure trove of personal information. Be mindful of what you share on social media regarding your trip. If you plan to share updates, consider posting them after you get home.
With a little common sense and pre-planning, you can ensure your vacation memories don’t include months of work to repair damage from identity theft.
This article is provided by SECURA insurance company, a bold insurance partner.
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