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Identity theft abroad

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Identity theft is recognised as a serious threat by the vast majority of people. However, although we are more vulnerable when abroad, that is the very time that we drop our guard. According to research carried out in 2005 by the UK's Fraud Prevention Service, it takes an average of 201 hours to unravel the damage done by identity thieves. Add to that the stress and inconvenience when it happens and you will see that it is well worth taking a few simple precautions.

As an example of the risks we consciously or unconsciously take, Capital One discovered that approximately 45% of us do not bother using the hotel safe. Instead, we leave our passport and personal documents lying around, oblivious to the fact that not all hotel staff are scrupulously honest. Alternatively, many carry them around, leaving themselves vulnerable to pickpockets.

The risks are real and palpable. Last year, almost 300,000 of us lost or had our passport stolen abroad. Indeed, many criminals would much prefer our personal details to our cash or other personal belongings. After all, with someone’s personal details, they can apply for credit cards, take out mobile phone contracts and operate our bank account, to say nothing of the various illegal activities which could be carried out in our name – all while we are sunning ourselves in blissful ignorance.

The places with the highest risk of identity theft are:

• America
• Africa (especially Nigeria)
• Eastern Europe
• Malaysia
• Indonesia

As well as the obvious security measure of travellers' cheques instead of credit cards, other tips to avoid falling prey to identity theft include:

• Notifying your bank if you are spending any significant time abroad.
• Having your post looked after by a neighbour or using the Royal Mail Keepsafe service.
• Using the hotel safe even if there is a charge – it is money well spent, after all.
• Using a money belt or concealed pouch if you have to carry your documents with you - for instance, when travelling.
• Keeping an eye on your credit card at all times.
• Not leaving important documents on the car seat beside you and keeping the car locked at all times and windows closed.
• Being aware of people asking to see your passport in the street – there are many scams in various parts of the world and many people are fooled.
• Using your business address and phone number when checking into hotels.
• Checking your credit card and bank statements carefully on your return home and acting immediately if there are any suspicious transactions.

If the worst comes to the worst and your passport is stolen, report it to the police and contact the British Embassy to make arrangements for an emergency replacement to be obtained. This will be easier if you have a copy of your passport with you (kept separate from the original of course) or one left at home with a friend.

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