How to Protect Yourself from Identity Theft While Traveling

Traveling has long been one of the best ways to expand our horizons—but, nowadays, it can also expose us to identity theft risks. And with more than 1 million reported cases of identity theft in 2023 alone, those risks shouldn’t be taken lightly. The good news: Some simple precautions can help you protect your information.

Here, top security professionals share smart strategies to help you protect yourself from identity theft in every phase of your travel journey.

Before you leave

Do: Lock down your financial security.

"If you haven't done it already, you need to lock your credit report [before traveling abroad]," says cybersecurity expert Tracey "Safety Lady" Hawkins, host of the award-winning Drive with NAR: The Safety Series podcast. "That way, no one is able to apply for credit in your name while you're out of the country." Freezing your credit is free through Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion, and unfreezing is quick and easy by phone or online. However, freezing doesn't stop unauthorized charges on existing accounts, so set up real-time banking notifications to monitor transactions.

Do: Secure your home and devices.

Smart home technology can make your home appear occupied, deterring potential break-ins. "I control my lights from my phone. They're scheduled to go on and off randomly," says Hawkins. "I also have a video doorbell, so if someone approaches my property, I get a notification."

For international travel, Calum Baird, a former digital forensics detective and now a digital forensics and incident response consultant, suggests using a separate SIM card. "Many modern smartphones support electronic SIMs (eSIMs), which let you switch numbers instantly," says Baird. This protects your primary number from SIM-swapping scams as well as helps you avoid high roaming fees when using your phone abroad.

While on your trip

Don’t: Put yourself at risk by using public Wi-Fi.

When out and about, use protection for secure connections. That includes avoiding the use of public Wi-Fi. "Don't connect to public Wi-Fi," Hawkins warns. "I have my phone as a hotspot. That means I can log on to my own Wi-Fi and not worry about public Wi-Fi."

If you don’t have a personal hotspot, you can get a virtual private network (VPN) when using public Wi-Fi.

"Using a VPN gives you an extra layer of privacy that keeps your data as secure as possible," says Seth Geftic, vice president of product marketing at Huntress, a US-based cybersecurity company. "When traveling, the last thing you want is to wake up one day and see that your bank account has been drained from using a cafe's Wi-Fi the day before."

Do: Protect against both digital and physical threats.

Thieves can exploit public charging stations in airports and hotels to steal data through compromised USB ports. Use a data-blocking adapter or portable power bank instead. "I never have to look for an outlet because I keep a power bank with me," Hawkins says.

"Have a decoy wallet in case you are unfortunately robbed," adds Hawkins. "The decoy wallet can have old credit cards that look real, while your real wallet—hopefully in a Faraday pouch—is stored in a different, more secure location." RFID-blocking bags can also help block thieves using RFID scanners to steal your information.

Don't: Fall for high-tech scams.

"Cyber criminals are using generative AI tools to write grammatically correct, appealing phishing emails," Hawkins says. "If you get an email with an offer—maybe it's a 'too-good-to-be-true' travel deal—do not click any links." Scammers also use AI to clone voices for fake emergency calls requesting money. If you get a call requesting money, find other contact methods to verify the situation.

After your trip

Do: Review your financial activity.

Take a few minutes to review all bank and credit card statements for suspicious activity. Even small, unfamiliar charges could be a sign of fraud. Report it immediately to your bank if you spot anything unusual.

Do: Safeguard your devices and accounts.

If you did connect to public Wi-Fi or happened to use a hotel computer, run a malware scan on your devices and delete any suspicious apps or files. Reset passwords for accounts accessed while traveling—especially banking, email, and social media. Enable two-factor authentication for extra security.

Even once you’re home, keep an eye on your financial accounts. Identity theft can often happen months before the information is used (tricky thieves can be patient), but with these security measures, you can reduce the risk and potential impact—and enjoy safer travels.