Issue Date: January 25, 2009
MoneySmart |
WALECIA KONRAD |
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Watch your ID when you travel
Keep the contents of your wallet to a minimum.
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Identity thieves love it when you go on the road. Your credit cards are out, your guard is down, and dozens of people have access to your financial information. So take these precautions, says Adam Levin of Identity Theft 911, an ID theft prevention consultancy.
Notify credit card companies that you'll be away -- especially if you're traveling abroad. If you're in Turkey and charges come in from London, they'll notify you and freeze your account. The sooner you know that something is wrong, the easier it will be to sort out.
Don't be disarmed by fancy restaurants and hotels; watch carefully when clerks are handling your card. Store passports and valuable papers in the hotel safe.
Consider taking one credit card. If the number is stolen, you'll have to cancel only one card. Better yet, ask for a temporary card (and separate account number) for the trip.
Want to know more about identity theft protection? Click here.
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