Last Updated on September 5, 2020 by Ellen Christian
Identity theft protection while traveling isn’t something people usually think about as they get their suitcases packed. I’m more concerned about whether my son has packed clean socks and underwear and whether I should bother packing my swimsuit or not. Unfortunately, identity theft protection while traveling IS something we need to think about.
Posts may be sponsored. This post contains affiliate links, which means I will make a commission at no extra cost to you should you click through and make a purchase. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Identity Theft Protection While Traveling
While we generally travel locally most of the time, we are still exposed to the risks of identity theft. Thieves know that when we travel we may not be paying as much attention to what we’re doing. We have to figure out where the kids are. We’re distracted by new places and things to see. We have a mental checklist running through our head reminding us to get gas, put sunscreen on the kids, locate a healthy place for lunch, etc.
Identity theft thieves also know that we are spending more money. We pay to get into attractions, buy souvenirs, spend money at restaurants. Each of these purchases opens us up to identity theft. There is also the added worry of having your wallet or pocketbook stolen. Some of these thieves are so good at what they do that you don’t know what has happened until it is too late. That’s a lot to worry about when you’re supposed to be having fun on your vacation. Fraud protection needs to be one of them.
Keep your identity safe while you’re on vacation
- Purchase a prepaid credit card and load the money you’ll be spending on it. When you make purchases, use that card instead of your debit or credit card. If it does get stolen, all you have lost is the money and there is no risk to your identity.
- Lock your suitcases at all times. Yes, security needs to check it at the airport but when you arrive at the hotel, keep it locked when you are not in the room.
- Leave things at home that you will not use. You probably have no need for every single credit card, your social security card or your checkbook while traveling.
- Be careful when you use free WIFI. It may not be as secure as you hope. Try not to type in any sensitive information while on an unsecured connection.
- Delete your cookies and browsing information from public computer systems if you use them.
- Check your banking or credit card statements while traveling to be certain they haven’t been compromised.
- Keep track of your cell phone and put a password on it. Many people have apps for their bank, credit card, shopping, etc. on their phones and that can contain a lot of personal information.
- Sign up for an identity theft protection service like LifeLock. They’ll notify you the second they detect an exposure or threat to your identity. It’s a great peace of mind.
Identity theft protection with LifeLock
You can use this LifeLock promotion code to save 10% off LifeLock identity protection service: LifeLocksafety. Visit the LifeLock Site for more information. One of my readers will win the new book, “Stolen Identity: What Anyone with a Name, Birthdate and Social Security Number Needs to Know Now.”
Identity theft is one of the most widespread and fast-evolving crimes, but many people don’t realize that it goes far beyond having a credit card number stolen. It can jeopardize your healthcare, block you from receiving the tax refund you’re due, interfere with a job or loan, and even run up debt for your children or elderly parents. Learn more about the alarming ways identity in which thieves operate today and what you can do to reduce your chances of having your identity stolen.
Ellen is a busy mom of a 24-year-old son and 29-year-old daughter. She owns six blogs and is addicted to social media. She believes that it doesn’t have to be difficult to lead a healthy life. She shares simple healthy living tips to show busy women how to lead fulfilling lives. If you’d like to work together, email info@confessionsofanover-workedmom.com to chat.
71 thoughts on “Identity Theft Protection While Traveling”