Since identity theft is common and difficult to protect against in other countries, you need to be a bit more proactive in terms of protecting your credit card. Identity thieves will specifically target foreigners, especially Americans because of their perceived vulnerability.
They’ll assume that you’re not paying attention and that you aren’t prepared, but if you prove them wrong, then you’ve already won the war.
So, how can you be prepared and get the jump start on potential identity thieves?
While you can never guarantee the safety of your credit card 100-percent (even on American soil), taking these simple steps can help to ensure that you’ve got the deck stacked in your favor.
Here are a few things you can do to help prevent identity theft while travelling abroad:
1. Notify your credit card company ahead of time -- Your credit card company is on your side. It might not feel like that at all times, but when it comes to identity theft, you’ve got a willing (and powerful) ally in your credit card company, so be sure to use them.
Give them a call before your trip and give them a quick “readers digest” version of where you’re going to be and what you’ll be buying. Not only will this prevent your credit from getting unnecessarily deactivated, but it will also help your credit card company know when and where to flag certain purchases if something does go wrong.
2. Cover up when entering your PIN number -- It seems obsessive and maybe even rude, but when you’re making a purchase in public and you have to enter your PIN number, feel free to be discreet.
If someone looking over your shoulder can get your PIN number, it’ll make you a prime target for identity theft and in turn will make life much easier for those targeting you.
3. Photocopy your credit card -- Make a copy of the front and back of your card and leave it with a trusted friend or family member before you go. This will make the process of cancelling the card easier, in the event that it does get stolen. Chances are that this won’t be an issue, but if your card does get swiped, it’ll allow you to expedite the cancellation process.
4. Checking expenses online or on your smartphone -- Make sure that you have your bank’s app, or some other method of tracking purchases and checking your balance on your laptop or smartphone.
If you’re able to monitor your purchases on a daily basis, you’ll also be able to pick up on inconsistencies or purchases that you might not have made that will show up on your expense report.
Don’t get overly obsessed with checking it, but just review your purchases each night to make sure you don’t find anything unexpected.
Staying Sharp
Overall, staying sharp and keeping your wits about you when you’re traveling abroad will be enough to keep the topic of identity theft off the table. In addition, taking these extra steps will help you to protect against the most typical forms of credit card theft and fraud.
In the off chance that you do experience some issues with your credit card while traveling abroad, there are plenty of resources for credit help that will be able to assist you.
The more you can ensure a smooth and uneventful trip overseas, the better off you’re going to be, especially when dealing with your finances.
About The Author:
Marcela De Vivo is a freelance writer and internet entrepreneur from Southern California whose writing covers everything on technology, home security, gaming and marketing. She keeps her computer well-protected through the use of various programs.
