Every day, around 400,000 burglaries take place globally. While you may already be cautious about thieves in your daily life, travelers today face an additional challenge: online identity theft. It’s becoming more common for travelers to lose sensitive data online than physical belongings like cash.
Travel is a great opportunity to unwind, but you should never let your guard down when it comes to your personal information. Whether you’re planning an upcoming holiday or just being cautious about your data, here are six critical tips for protecting your information when traveling.
Table of Contents
- Take precautions when using free Wi-Fi
- Watch out for digital scammers
- Put a hold on your mail
- Freeze your credit
- Only carry the essentials
- Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA)
1. Take Precautions When Using Free Wi-Fi
Free public Wi-Fi can be convenient while traveling, but it also poses a risk to your personal information. Cybercriminals often exploit unsecured networks to steal data like login credentials or banking details. To avoid this, limit your use of public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions. If you must, consider using a VPN to secure your browsing. Additionally, keeping an RFID blocking wallet can prevent thieves from accessing your contactless payment cards or passports while you’re in public spaces.
2. Watch Out for Digital Scammers
Physical security should be just as much of a priority as online safety. ATM fraud and card skimming remain common, especially in unfamiliar locations. Always use ATMs inside banks and look for signs of tampering. To further secure your financial data, consider using an RFID blocking wallet, which protects your cards from electronic pickpocketing devices. By carrying an RFID blocking wallet, you’ll reduce the risk of having your credit card data stolen through remote readers.
3. Put a Hold on Your Mail
While you’re away, thieves may target your home to steal sensitive documents such as bank statements, which can be used for identity theft. To prevent this, place a mail hold with your postal service. This ensures your mail will be safely stored until you return, giving you peace of mind.
4. Freeze Your Credit
Freezing your credit is a smart, proactive way to prevent unauthorized individuals from opening accounts in your name. It’s free and can be done quickly through major credit bureaus. This precautionary step helps to keep your identity secure, even if someone gains access to your personal information. Just as an RFID blocking wallet protects your cards from digital pickpocketing, a credit freeze can safeguard your financial accounts from unauthorized access.
5. Only Carry the Essentials
When sightseeing, it’s important to carry only what you need: one form of ID, a credit card, and a small amount of cash. Store most of your valuables in a hotel safe, and keep your wallet secure in a front pocket or a money belt. If you’re carrying cards, use an RFID blocking wallet to ensure your cards aren’t scanned by electronic thieves. An RFID blocking wallet can add an extra layer of protection to your essentials, especially in crowded areas.
6. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of protection for your online accounts. By requiring more than just a password to log in, MFA makes it harder for cybercriminals to access your data. This method is especially important when accessing sensitive financial or personal accounts while traveling.
Final Thoughts: Protect Your Personal Information on the Road
Traveling is a wonderful experience, but staying vigilant about your personal data is essential to avoid identity theft and fraud. By using strategies such as freezing your credit, securing your online activity with a VPN, and carrying an RFID blocking wallet, you can significantly reduce the risk of being targeted by cybercriminals. These precautions will help protect your data, allowing you to fully enjoy your travels.
