All Points Mobile Shredding Blog
Identity Theft While Traveling
How to Protect Yourself
Summer’s here and with it comes the one thing many of us look forward to all year–vacation. And while it’s a time to have wonderful adventures and create lasting memories, it’s also a time to be wary of the dangers of ID theft. Thieves can often spot tourists, know that you are in unfamiliar surroundings and that you are carrying personal documents and money with you. Although there are risks of scams and fraud while vacationing, there are several ways to protect yourself, take a look:
Leave Unnecessary Documents At Home
Before traveling, it’s recommended that you go through your wallet/purse and take out any unnecessary documents. Receipts, papers that have account numbers and any other documents that you don’t need should be stored in a secure place at home. Remember that thieves only need a minimal amount of information to steal your identity, so it’s best to err on the side of caution and only take your passport and driver’s license, or any ID that is required for your trip.
Refrain from Posting Your Vacation Plans on Social Media
While it’s fun to share the excitement of your vacation with friends on social media, it’s also an announcement to ID thieves that you’re out of your house and where you’re traveling to. Posting pics in front of the hotel you’re staying at or at the airport as you hold up your boarding pass may seem innocent enough, but it is just enough to let crooks know where you are going or where you are staying. It’s best to wait until you return home to share your fun vacation photos and stories.
Be Cautious When Using Bluetooth in Rental Cars
Bluetooth makes traveling so much more convenient, it’s ideal when you’re driving around an area you are unfamiliar with–but it can also make you vulnerable for ID theft. The next person that rents the car can gain access to personal information from your phone and other devices, including text messages, contact information and logins for streaming services. Speak to the rental car company about their privacy policies and be sure to disconnect your phone and any other devices before you return the vehicle.
Be Wary of Scams
There are many online scams that most of us are familiar with, but traditional scammers are still out there and are ready to steal your identity, especially when you’re traveling. Some schemes include calling travelers posing as a tour, hotel or transportation representative and asking for personal information. It’s important to verify who you are speaking with before giving any information and of course, if something seems fishy, it usually is.
Traveling is a time of great adventure and joy! Protect yourself and your family against ID theft by following these tips. All Points Mobile Shredding is a family-owned and operated company located in Stuart, Florida. We’re committed to helping our residential and business customers remain safe from ID theft. To learn more about our secure shredding and destruction services, give us a call or fill out this form.
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