Summer travel is a time for fun and exploration, but it also brings a greater chance of identity theft. Being in unfamiliar places and using public Wi-Fi can make your personal information more vulnerable than usual. Don’t fret! We’ll provide you with helpful and easy-to-follow advice on how to protect yourself from identity theft so you can enjoy your trip without worry.

✈️ Before you go

Before you even pack your bags, taking a few key steps can significantly reduce your risk of identity theft.

✅ First, when it comes to your documents, only take the identification and credit cards you absolutely need. Leave extra sensitive documents at home. Create both physical and secure digital backups of important items like your passport, driver’s license, and credit cards.

✅ Next, be smart with your tech. When making reservations, be sure you’re using a secure and reputable site. Update the software on all your devices and turn on security features like strong passwords and two-factor authentication. Be wary of public Wi-Fi and don’t use it to access any banking information. Think about using a VPN for a safer connection. Don’t forget to back up the data on your devices.

✅ Lastly, plan financially: inform your bank and credit card companies about your trip, activate fraud alerts, and consider a protective travel credit card. Understanding your consumer credit rights will also equip you to handle unauthorized transactions and disputes.

🌍 While you’re out

While you’re traveling, and once you arrive at your destination, stay vigilant!

When handling payments, be wary of skimmers attached to ATMs and payment terminals; give readers a quick check by wiggling them before use. If you can, use credit cards rather than debit cards as they usually offer better fraud protection. Use contactless payment options when you can for added security. Absolutely avoid using public computers in places like hotel lobbies or internet cafes for sensitive transactions like online banking or making purchases.

For protecting your physical documents and devices, keep your wallet and bags secure and out of sight in public places. Never leave your phone, tablet, or laptop unattended, even briefly. Make sure that all your devices are protected with a strong password. If you can, leave any important documents, like your passport, in a secure location like a hotel safe instead of carrying it around with you.

Regarding staying safe online, be on the lookout for phishing scams that might come through email, texts, or social media. Always verify that websites are legitimate before entering any personal information.

Finally, think carefully about how much travel information you share on social media. Sharing real-time locations can provide criminals with valuable information about your absence and habits, making you an easier target.

If the worst happens: Responding to identity theft

Even with the best precautions, identity theft can still occur. If the worst happens while you’re traveling, taking swift action is crucial.

Immediate actions

First, report the incident to the relevant authorities. If you’re at a hotel, notify the hotel security immediately. You should also file a police report in the local jurisdiction where the theft occurred. This documentation can be important for insurance claims and proving the crime.

Second, immediately contact your bank and credit card companies. Inform them of the situation and request that they cancel or freeze any affected accounts to prevent further unauthorized use.

Follow-up steps

Once you’ve addressed the immediate crisis, take these additional steps. File a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at IdentityTheft.gov. This federal agency collects identity theft complaints and provides valuable resources for recovery.

Next, consider placing a credit freeze or a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). A credit freeze restricts access to your credit report, making it harder for thieves to open new accounts in your name. A fraud alert  requires lenders to take extra steps to verify your identity before issuing credit.

Finally, it’s essential to regularly monitor your credit reports for any suspicious activity or unauthorized accounts. You are entitled to a free credit report from each of the three bureaus annually at AnnualCreditReport.com.

💡 Final thoughts

Summer travel offers wonderful experiences, but it’s wise to be mindful of identity theft. Taking a few precautions before and during your trip can greatly reduce your risk. Remember, the goal is to be aware, not anxious. Be proactive, enjoy your travels, and feel confident knowing you’ve taken sensible steps to protect your information.