Even though technology has made travel planning much easier these days, it's also made things that much easier for thieves to wreak havoc on our lives. The convenience of booking flights, hotels, and experiences online comes with increased risks to our personal and financial information. A few months ago, I received a suspicious charge on my credit card from what appeared to be a legitimate international hotel booking site. While my bank caught this fraudulent charge quickly, it served as an important reminder that we must remain vigilant when planning travel, especially when dealing with international websites and services.
Here in California, identity theft and credit card fraud are increasingly common, particularly when dealing with international transactions. While banks have become better at detecting suspicious activity, you can't rely solely on their protection. Fraudsters are constantly developing new techniques to steal personal information, especially targeting travelers who may be using unfamiliar websites or services.
So here are some tips that I've picked up to help you protect your privacy and prevent identity theft while on vacation.
Protecting Your Privacy While Planning Your Trip
The planning phase is when you're most vulnerable to digital theft, as you're sharing payment information across multiple platforms. Creating a secure digital environment with a VPN and dedicated travel planning device can significantly reduce your risk of identity theft.
Use a VPN Service for Online Bookings
You can get a VPN service very affordably these days from a variety of providers. This works just like when you connect to your office network and encrypts everything between your device and the VPN host. When booking travel arrangements online, always ensure your VPN is active to protect your personal and financial information from potential cyber threats.
Monitor Financial Statements Closely
Make it a habit to check your bank and credit card statements regularly during the travel planning phase. Watch for any suspicious charges, especially small test charges that thieves often make before larger fraud attempts. Pay particular attention to charges from unfamiliar travel websites or international vendors.
Research Booking Websites Thoroughly
Before entering any personal or financial information on a travel booking site, especially international ones, research their reputation and security measures. Look for https:// in the URL, read recent reviews, and verify that they're authorized resellers if booking through third-party sites.
Consider Using Virtual Card Numbers
Many credit card companies now offer virtual card numbers for online purchases. These temporary numbers are linked to your account but can be locked to specific vendors or amounts, providing an extra layer of security when booking with unfamiliar travel websites.
Keep Planning Documents Secure
Create a dedicated folder (physical or digital) for all your travel documentation. If using digital storage, ensure it's password-protected and encrypted. Never store unencrypted copies of your passport, credit card numbers, or other sensitive information on your devices.
Protecting Yourself While Traveling
Expert Tip: Travelers are most vulnerable to identity theft in the first 24 hours after arriving at their destination, when they're tired and adjusting to a new environment. Set up all your security measures before departure and stick to your predetermined safety protocols even when jetlagged.
Secure Your Devices
Enable two-factor authentication on all your devices and accounts before traveling. Set up a PIN or password that's different from your usual ones, and ensure all your software and security updates are current before departure.
Use RFID Protection
Invest in RFID-blocking wallets and passport holders to protect your credit cards and passport from electronic pickpocketing. These items are especially important in crowded tourist areas where thieves might use portable scanners to steal information.
Be Cautious with Public WiFi
Never conduct financial transactions or access sensitive information over public WiFi networks without a VPN. Be particularly wary of "free" WiFi hotspots in tourist areas, and always verify the legitimate network name with hotel or restaurant staff.
Protect Your PIN
When using ATMs or making purchases abroad, always shield the keypad when entering your PIN. Be aware of your surroundings and look for signs of tampering on card readers, especially at standalone ATMs or gas stations.
Trust Your Instincts
If something feels off about a situation or transaction, trust that feeling. Whether you're using an ATM, making a purchase, or just checking your email in public, stay alert to your surroundings and potential security risks.
Handle Cash and Cards Wisely
Keep your cards separate from cash, and never carry all your payment methods in one place. Consider keeping a backup credit card in your hotel safe, and only carry what you need for each day.
When planning your international travel, it's crucial to exercise additional caution when using foreign booking sites or travel planning tools. While many international travel websites are legitimate and secure, they may not be subject to the same regulatory oversight as those based in the United States or Canada. This can potentially put your personal and financial information at risk.
If you're not comfortable navigating foreign websites or dealing with international bookings and currency exchange issues, consider working with a reputable travel advisor. These professionals have experience with vetted international partners and can help ensure your bookings are made through secure, legitimate channels. They can also provide valuable guidance on using credit cards abroad and protecting your financial information while traveling. While it may cost a bit more to work with a travel advisor, the peace of mind and added security they provide can be well worth the investment, especially when planning complex international trips.
