Tips For Travelers

Whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, be on the alert for opportunities that identity thieves may try to take advantage of:

• Receipts Do not leave credit card receipts on the table at restaurants; sign them and hand them directly back to the server. Keep your copy of all receipts.
• Wallets Stolen wallets frequently lead to identity theft, so instead of carrying your wallet in your pocket or having it easily accessible in your bag, use travel pouches that are worn inside your shirt.
• Checks Leave checkbooks at home in a locked safe or drawer. Checking account takeover is one of the hardest types of financial fraud to clear up.
• Camera phones That tourist with a camera phone may actually be taking a shot of your credit card or driver's license. Keep important personal information out of view from others.
• Mail Put your mail on postal hold whenever you travel, and arrange for mail to only be picked up by you at the post office when you return.
• Hotels Lock up all valuables in room or hotel safes while you are out, including laptops, passports and other documents that contain your personal identifying information. Do not leave these items with a hotel doorman to transport or carry them yourself.
• Airplanes Do not put any items that contain your social security number, card numbers, or financial institution account numbers in checked luggage. Always carry that with you.

Credit cards and debit cards have far greater purchasing power than the cash you carry in your wallet, yet they also offer considerably lower liability than other forms of payment. However, fraud can lead to considerable hassle and financial troubles, so make sure you continue to take steps to safeguard your personal finances.