Protecting Your Identity While Traveling with Porter Bank

Did you know that during vacations and travel adventures, is a prime opportunity for identity theft. With an increase in online transactions, public Wi-Fi usage, and unfamiliar surroundings, travelers are more vulnerable to identity theft. Protecting your identity during travel requires vigilance and proactive measures. 

Here are some essential tips from Porter Bank to help keep your personal information safe while you enjoy your getaway!

4 Crucial Tips to Protect Your Identity While Traveling

  • Be Cautious with Public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi networks, such as those found in airports, hotels, and cafes, are convenient but often unsecured. Cyber-criminals can easily intercept data on these networks. To protect your information, use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to encrypt your internet connection, making it more secure. Additionally, avoid accessing your bank accounts, making online purchases, or entering personal information while on public Wi-Fi. Disable the feature on your device that automatically connects to available Wi-Fi networks to prevent unintended connections. 

  • Secure Your Devices

Your smartphone, tablet, and laptop contain a wealth of personal information, so keeping these devices secure is crucial. Enable password protection and use strong passwords or biometric authentication (fingerprinting or facial recognition) to lock your devices. Ensure you have up-to-date antivirus and anti-malware software installed and regularly update your device’s operating system and apps to protect against security vulnerabilities. Enable the remote wipe feature on your devices so you can erase data if they are lost or stolen. 

  • Be Wary of Phishing Scams

Phishing scams can occur via email, text messages, or phone calls, and they often increase during travel seasons. To avoid falling victim, be skeptical of unsolicited messages and verify the sender’s information before clicking on links or providing personal information. Be cautious of messages that create a sense of urgency, have grammatical errors, or request sensitive information. If you need to contact a company, use official contact information from their website rather than links provided in unsolicited messages. 

  • Protect Your Personal Documents

When traveling, you often carry important documents like your passport, driver’s license, and credit cards. Protect these items to prevent identity theft by using a money belt or RFID-blocking wallet to keep your documents secure and protect them from electronic pickpocketing. Carry only what you need and avoid carrying unnecessary documents or multiple credit cards. Keep photocopies or digital copies of your important documents in a secure location separate from the originals.

Need More Tips on Protecting Your Identity and Managing Finances? Contact Porter Bank Today!

For more tips on protecting your identity and managing your finances, reach out to your nearest Porter Bank location or call 219-926-2136 to report any suspicious activity. We’re here to help you navigate your financial journey securely.