Scammed! Avoid Trouble on Vacation

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A vacation can turn into sour very quickly if you discover you've become the victim of identity theft or a scam.

A vacation can turn into sour very quickly if you discover you’ve become the victim of identity theft or a scam. And when you’re in a foreign country, these can turn from annoying inconveniences can be nightmares.

Pickpockets can be common in big cities and sometimes signs warning you about these thieves are the biggest traps of all. Smart thieves hang around because tourists have a tendency to touch their wallets to reassure themselves. And if you ever bump into someone roughly, always double check you still have your valuables. Even if that stranger is ever so helpful and apologetic after knocking you down.

And be wary of what cars you get in. If someone claims to be a taxi cab, but doesn’t have a company name visible, don’t get in. Otherwise, you might find your cab fare hiked up the further you drive, or worse, that your driver is taking you to a secluded area to rob you.

If hotel staff calls your room for your credit card number, do not give it out over the phone. It’s better to walk down to the front desk and confirm the reason. This is one of the top credit card scams. It may seem innocent enough when a staff member calls to verify the last four digits of your card because of a mix up, but you should be wary of giving out your correct credit card number over the phone.

If you find out that you’ve become a victim while on vacation, cancel any credit cards you find missing or think someone has gotten the information of. If you’ve purchased travel insurance, sometimes the company can help.

Make sure you have the phone numbers of your credit card companies written down somewhere. They can be found on the back of your card, but if your card has been stolen you could find yourself in a bit of a bind.

Sometimes the best way to minimize the possibility of theft is to take a preemptive measure by leaving some things home. Expensive jewelry will draw attention right away and could make you a target. Any important documents you don’t absolutely need on vacation shouldn’t leave home either, such as your social security card, any ID that you don’t need or extra credit cards.

If you feel the need to bring any of those things, keep them close or keep them in the hotel safe.

Safe travels!

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