Travel is an opportunity to fundamentally change who you are. It introduces new experiences, different cultures and cuisines, and it provides the chance to create cherished memories. That being said, it is critical not to overlook the ever-present risk of identity theft or data hacking that can turn your dream vacation into an absolute nightmare. Identity theft typically occurs when someone obtains your personal data and uses it to assume your identity in order to open credit cards in your name, or to secure loans, or to siphon funds from your accounts. While traveling, your risk of identity theft is often greater due to increased exposure to less secure environments. Here's a basic guide on how to protect yourself from identity theft while traveling. In fact, most of the following points should be practiced everywhere, not just traveling.
Be Mindful of Public Wi-Fi and Charging Stations
Free Wi-Fi is always appealing, especially to avoid data roaming charges abroad, but public Wi-Fi networks are more often than not unsecured making it easier for thieves to steal your data. Using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) when accessing public Wi-Fi is a good first line defense. VPN encrypts your internet connection, making it much harder for hackers to access your personal information. Most virus protection services, such as Norton, offer this VPN protection for several devices. In addition to this, you should use a data blocker to prevent the ability of hackers to steal your data when you use a public charging station. Any time you are charging using a direct USB connection as opposed to an outlet you should ALWAYS have a data blocker in the port like this one for example. Use common sense. Don't log in to sensitive accounts (banks, credits cards, etc.) while on any form of public WiFi. In fact, avoid logging in to any personal account if you can. This is especially true if you are one of those people who re-use passwords across accounts (that's not you, right?).
Limit What You Carry
Only carry essential documents, such as your passport and necessary credit cards. Leave anything you won’t need; social security/SIN cards, additional credit cards you won't use, membership cards, etc. Trim your wallet/purse. You should consider using an RFID-blocking wallet like we have listed below to protect your passport, credit cards, and other forms of ID from skimmers.
Secure Your Devices
Your phones, tablets, and laptops can be a goldmine of personal information for identity thieves. Ensure all your devices are password-protected; by which I mean serious passwords, not simple ones you have used across multiple sites. Always make sure you have the latest security software updates installed. Avoid using the auto-fill feature for passwords and personal information, and make sure to set up a method to remotely wipe the device's data in case it is lost or stolen. Try to avoid using text messages as a two factor identification and instead opt for an app such as Google Authenticator. This will also make it easier on you if you use an eSim for your data while traveling as you won't need to worry if you have a different phone number temporarily. To read more about how to use your phone affordably when traveling check out our related post here.
Be Discreet with Personal Information
When traveling, you may be required to share personal information for booking tours, accommodations, or transportation. Be mindful of who is around when you're sharing such information, especially over the phone. Avoid saying sensitive information out loud! I can honestly say that I have overheard at least a dozen conversations in a public place where an individual was dealing with a bank, or credit card company and I would have been able to write down that person's name, address, phone number and social security number because they were talking to the individual using their headphones completely oblivious to the fact that others around could also hear perfectly clear.
Finally, always ensure that websites where you enter personal or financial information are secure (look for "https" in the URL) and we shouldn't have to remind you but just in case we will, NEVER open links sent via email. If you think the email is legit and there may indeed be an issue with your Sirius subscription or your McAfee account, or Prime or whatever else the scammers are trying to get you to log in to then by all means, open a separate secure browser and log into your account that way. Same is true for phone calls. If you get a call from your bank, tell them you'll call back and then do so on the number you know is valid either from the back of your debit card, or on their website.
Monitor Your Accounts
Regularly check your bank and credit card statements for any suspicious transactions, but only through a secure internet connection or a VPN. Many banks offer alerts for foreign transactions or for purchases over a certain amount, so consider setting these up before you leave. I know I have email alerts for foreign transactions and for purchases over a certain threshold through my credit cards and I have actually needed it once to catch a fraudulent charge.
Make Digital Copies
Before you leave, make digital copies of important documents like your passport, ID, and travel insurance. Store them securely online where you can access them (again, using a secure internet connection or a VPN) in case the originals are lost or stolen. This can be invaluable in speeding up the process of proving your identity and getting replacements at the consulate.
Use Trusted Sources
When booking your travel, use reputable websites and companies. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true and double-check the URLs to avoid phishing scams. When in doubt, contact the service provider directly through verified contact details.
Freeze Your Credit
This may sounds extreme but unless you are planning a big purchase like a car/house where you'll be applying for a loan/mortgage, or if you are planning to apply for a credit card, then maybe you should just freeze your credit. It is free to do so, thanks to a relatively recent law, and it is a fairly simple process you can compete online. This freeze will prevent a hard enquiry which is a situation when a lender requests your credit report after you (or someone pretending to be you) have applied for a loan or other form of credit. If you are going to be traveling for an extended period of time I would highly suggest doing so but even in every day situations, if you know you won't be applying for a loan/credit any time soon it is worth doing anyhow. Unfortunately if you reside in Canada this process is not available to you yet, so put some pressure on your MPs and get them to have the credit monitors extend that capability to you! In the United States you can go about the credit freeze by phone or online. You'll need to do it for all three companies individually, and again when you decide to unfreeze. Each one has a slightly different process. The companies are:
Experian: Online at https://www.experian.com/freeze/center.html or by phone at 1-888-378-4329. (They will provide you with a PIN that you will need to unfreeze later)
TransUnion: Online at https://www.transunion.com/credit-freeze or by phone at 1-888-909-8872 (They will also provide you with a PIN that you will need to unfreeze later)
Equifax: Online at https://www.equifax.com/personal/credit-report-services/credit-freeze/ or by phone at 1-800-685-1111
After Your Trip
Once you return, continue to monitor your accounts for any unusual activity. Sometimes, the effects of identity theft can take time to appear. If you suspect that your information has been compromised, contact your bank and credit card issuers immediately, and consider placing a fraud alert on your credit reports.
Summary
Traveling should be about creating unforgettable memories, not worrying about identity theft. By taking these proactive steps, you can significantly reduce your risk and ensure that your travel stories are only about the good times. Stay safe, stay informed, and enjoy your adventures to the fullest.
Happy (Secure) Travels!
Il Digestivo
Here are a few items we highly recommend having for travel to help protect your data and identity. Note: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Amazon Basics RFID Waist Belt
This travel money belt keeps your cash, cards and important documents organized and secure. RFID blocking material protects against skimming. With 2 zippered compartments with inner pockets to organize items it is a travel essential.
PacSafe RFID Wallet
If you need something a little bigger for more cards, boarding passes, passports, etc. then consider the PacSafe Wallet. Compact, with 6* Card Slots, 1* Zippered Mesh Window Slot for ID Card, 1* Mesh Passport Holder, 1* Boarding Pass Slip pocket, 1* Zippered Pocket, 1* Pen Loop. Features External Zippered Coins Pocket. Has an Elastic Band to keep wallet closed and has a wire reinforced webbing strap which can be worn around the wrist or secured to a belt loop.
PortaPow USB Data Blocker
Don't take any chances when charging your phone or other devices.
If you are not charging via a wall outlet, and instead are using a USB cable directly to a charging station like the ones you find in airports then you are at risk of having your phone data stolen, or your phone compromised by malware.
These simple and inexpensive devices block data from transferring in either direction and will only allow the current to pass through to charge your device.
Tile Slim+Pro (2022) 4-Pack (2 Slims, 2 Pros)
Keep track of your luggage and your wallet with these Bluetooth trackers and the free Tile app compatible with both iOS and Android devices. This bundle will give you two of the luggage tags and two of the slim. The luggage tags have a replaceable battery. The Tile Slim is designed so it can fit into a wallet (about 2 credit cards thickness) or a passport. The Slim has a non-replaceable battery with a stated life expectancy of 3 years.
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