When preparing to travel for business or vacation, you may be getting yourself packed and making arrangements for your pets. However, something you may not have considered is taking steps to secure your identity before leaving. Unfortunately, thieves in your hometown and abroad may target you while traveling, using your information to commit fraud. As such, taking the necessary steps to secure your identity before leaving is crucial. The following blog explores how you can protect your identity and why it’s crucial to contact a California identity theft victim lawyer to assist if you believe your information was compromised.
What Steps Can I Take to Protect My Identity While Traveling?
If you’re worried about shielding your identity while traveling, there are steps you can take before leaving home to help minimize the risk of damage. One of the most crucial steps is to place your mail on hold. Unfortunately, you may find that when mail piles up, thieves can steal letters containing sensitive information. As such, they can use your details to create false identities.
Another thing you can do is research the style and fashion of locals in the country you are visiting to include some of those pieces in your suitcase. Unfortunately, if you look like a tourist, you risk being the target of pickpockets and thieves. However, doing your best to blend in can help you reduce the risk of being a target.
When you arrive at your destination, you may be tempted to use public wifi. Though it may seem enticing, hackers can quickly and easily access the information on your device. You should also avoid using free or public charging ports, as these can access your device when connected.
Finally, you’ll want to avoid carrying unnecessary personal and financial documents when sightseeing. You should not bring your passport and every debit or credit card you own with you. If your bag is stolen, you can lose everything. Instead, only carry what’s absolutely necessary.
I Think My Identity Was Compromised. What Can I Do?
If traveling and your credit card is stolen, or you are alerted to unusual activity on your accounts, taking swift action can help minimize damage. The first thing you should do is contact the credit bureaus (Experian, Transunion, and Equifax) to request a credit freeze on your account. This helps prevent additional accounts or loans from being opened in your name without permission.
In the event accounts or loans have been opened, you should file a dispute with the reporting agencies to have the inaccurate information removed from your credit report, as this can be detrimental to your credit score.
Finally, you’ll want to contact Loker Law as soon as possible to help you regain control of your finances after you’ve been the victim of identity theft. Unfortunately, you may encounter many challenges when recovering from identity theft. As such, our firm will do everything possible to help you through any issues you may face. Schedule your free consultation today.
