Ways to Protect Your Privacy and Stay Safe While Traveling
If you’re traveling this season, you’re going to want to make sure to protect your privacy. It’s very common for travelers to get scammed when they’re trying to enjoy a fun vacation, often because their guard is down or because they’re distracted while having fun in a new place. So, no matter where you’re going this season, you’re going to want these expert tips on how to protect your privacy.
Experts Say How to Protect Your Privacy While Traveling
One great way to protect your privacy while traveling is to not bring unnecessary personal items along for the trip. “Only bring what you absolutely need when it comes to cards, travel documents, and other personal information,” Security.org suggests. “Not only will traveling lightly lessen the chances of everything getting lost or stolen, it will also keep your wallet compact and organized.” So, go through your wallet or purse before your trip and only bring what’s needed.
Another smart tip is to not alert people that you’re going on vacation publicly. For example, I often see people post on their public social accounts that they’re going to be taking a big trip to Europe on such-and-such date. If you do that, it’s possible someone will see that and know that’s a good time to try to break into your home or otherwise find private information about you. Don’t tell too many people that you’re going away, especially if it’s a long trip.
Another tip is to avoid fake or non-secure Wi-Fi networks. Meyerandassoc.com suggests using a VPN (Virtual Private Network). “Connecting to public Wi-Fi is risky, because others can potentially spy on you, track you, or plant malware on your device,” they add. “Scammers can even create fake networks with authentic-sounding names in order to steal your personal data.” So, if you’re at a theme park and public Wi-Fi is available, you might want to avoid using it. Instead, go through a VPN.
Finally, I personally suggest that you get a portable USB charger. Did you know that public USB charging outlets can have spyware or malware on them that could be transferred to your cell phone? So, don’t use public USB chargers. Instead, you can use an AC outlet or, if that’s not available, your own private portable USB charger. Also, just to be safe, make sure your phone has anti-virus software that’s up-to-date with the latest security protocols. I hope these tips keep you safe and happy on your next vacation.
You Should Know These New Scams That Are Trending
Watch out for the new 'check cooking scam'
The AARP warns of a new scam called the “check cooking scam.” The AARP states, “In check cooking, thieves take a digital picture of a stolen check and then use commercially available software to alter it.” It can look super real, but it’s fake. So, how do you stay safe? “Consider using a safer payment method, such as a credit card,” they suggest.
Getty Images / Andrey Popov
Look out for the 'delayed-action sweepstakes scam'
The AARP states also warns of a new sweepstakes scam where “instead of trying to get you to pay taxes or other fees in advance to collect the nonexistent prize, the scammers will ask for personal information so that they can validate you and set up the payout.” Just say no.
Getty Images / Torsten Asmus
Watch out for AI-powered scams
These days, AI scams are big. Experian.com says today, scammers use technology to “write more convincing and natural-sounding phishing emails and text messages.” They can also “Impersonate the victim’s friend or relative and ask for money as part of a grandparent scam.” It’s scary stuff. Beware of anything that sounds too crazy, as these can often seem far-fetched, but AI makes them look real.
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Beware of student loan forgiveness scams
Experian.com says that student loan forgiveness scams are on the rise. They note that, “scammers may contact you via phone or create phony application sites aimed at stealing your Social Security number or your bank account information.” Don’t give out your information. If it sounds too good to be true, it is.
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Look out for the Paris Olympics scam
This one is really wild. With the games on the way, scammers can use the games to scam you. The AARP states, “A scammer hacks someone’s email account, and shortly after, all of that person’s contacts will receive the same message — something to the effect of, ‘Hey guys, I’m over in Paris and my wallet got stolen! Can anyone please help me out by sending gift cards or a Venmo deposit?”
Getty Images / Marcio-Binow-Da-Silva
The best way to avoid scams
Whether the scam is new or old, the best way to avoid it is to stop and think about what’s happening. These scam artists are super good at what they do, but if you just stop for a moment and really think out any actions, you can avoid making a rash decision that could cost you.
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