From safeguarding documents to not using unsecured connections for bank transactions, here’s how to stay safe while you’re travelling

Identify theft is a major problem that travelers have to deal with. However, there are a few things you can do to prevent falling victim to it.

GUARD YOUR DOCUMENTS –  

If you plan to carry your documents with you, keep them on you at all times, and download, soft copies on your phone (you can refer to them in case you misplace the docs.) Ensure that you keep all your confidential documents in a pouch inside a handbag/sling bag that is always on you or in a money pouch that’s strapped and secured to your waist.

AVOID ACCESSING YOUR BANK ACCOUNTS ON UNSECURED CONNECTIONS –

Don’t use internet banking on an unsecure connection as your information can be stolen and misused.

DELETE ALL COOKIES AND BROWSING HISTORY –

The last thing you should do before you walk away after using a public terminal is delete all cookies and browsing history before you log off.

USE A DEDICATED TRAVEL EMAIL ADDRESS –

You can also create a separate travel email address, and only access that while travelling. This way, it will prevents access to your regular mailbox.

CHANGE PASSWORDS AND PINS –

If you suspect something, change your password and pins to make sure it cannot be misused by anyone.

PASSWORD PROTECT YOUR PHONE –

You need to password protect your phone, so that even if it gets if it gets misplaced, it cannot be unlocked by someone else. Also, make it a point to log of all apps before stepping out.

CHANGE SETTING TO RECEIVE EMAIL ALERTS –

Change your bank account settings to receive all notifications about banking transactions via email. This way, in case someone misuse your account, you will immediately be notified via email, and can use that information to make a case about you travelling.

YOU CAN CREATE A SEPARATE EMAIL ADDRESS, AND ONLY ACCESS THAT WHILE TRAVELLING. THIS WILL PREVENT ACCESS TO YOUR REGULAR MAILBOX.

(courtesy:toi)