Identity Theft How to Protect Yourself When You Travel

May 5th, 2008

8. Always have a credit card 800 emergency number with you in case your card is stolen.

9. Remove everything personal from your wallet, even your library card. Don’t stick receipts in your wallet or leave them in a rental car. Store receipts in a safe.

10. To dispose of documents you no longer need, soak them in warm water until they turn to pulp, and throw the pulp away.

11. Avoid ATM machines. If you must use one, cover the card with your hand so the number can’t be photographed from a distance.

12. Memorize your hotel room number.

13. Don’t put anything personal (letters with return addresses, etc.) in the trash.

14. Always put outgoing mail on a locked box.

These tips don’t guarantee that you won’t be a victim of identity theft, but they make it harder for the thieves to be successful. Check your wallet and coat pockets again before you leave. As the Boy Scout motto says, “Be prepared.”

Copyright 2006 by Harriet Hodgson

http://www.harriethodgson.com

Harriet Hodgson has been a nonfiction writer for 27 years and is a member of the Association of Health Care Journalists. Her 24th book, “Smiling Through Your Tears: Anticipating Grief,” written with Lois Krahn, MD is available from http://www.amazon.com A five-star review is also posted on Amazon. You’ll find another review on The American Hospice Foundation website under the “School Corner” heading.

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Entry Filed under: Travel Information