Tag Archives: identity theft

Planning your trip or vacation can be fun and exciting. No doubt a primary concern will be where you will stay. After location and amenities the next thing, you should consider is security and safety when selecting your property. These must-read hotel safety tips can help you find a hotel or resort which takes your security and safety as seriously as you do.

Before Your Trip

Copy all credit cards, airline tickets, passports, and important documents. Copy both the front and back sides. Alternatively, you can keep a photo of them on your phone.
Jewelry, luggage, and all valuables you’re taking should be photographed before you pack them. Photos will come in handy in case of loss or theft and with reporting and verifying the loss with law enforcement and insurance

Tips for Selecting a Safe Hotel

If possible, select a hotel that has installed modern electronic guest room locks. The majority of these locks automatically change the lock combination with every new guest so there is little chance of someone having a duplicate key to your room. If you lose or misplace your key, ask to have your room re-keyed immediately.
Each room should be equipped with a deadbolt lock and a peephole.
Most US municipal codes require hotels to have fire sprinklers in hotel rooms, hallways, and meeting rooms likewise for smoke detectors. Hotels in foreign countries may not, particularly if they are a small B and B.
Each room telephone should allow outside dialing.
Guest phones located in hallways and lobbies should not allow direct room dialing. Anyone using the phone should have to call the operator and request a room by guest name, not the room number.
Look for secure locks on windows and adjoining doors.
The interior hallways, parking structures, and grounds should be well lit.
The parking garage should not have elevators that directly access guest floors. They should only go to the lobby.
Does the hotel provide personnel trained in security to escort guests to rooms or autos when requested?
Is the hotel located in a high crime rate area, especially when traveling overseas? Check with the US Embassy’s Resident Security Officer in that country and they can alert you of areas to stay away from.

Checking into the Hotel (Reception)

If you arrive via a bus or cab, stay with your luggage until it is brought into the hotel lobby.
Keep a close eye on your luggage, purse, and gear when checking in.
Thieves will often take advantage of the distractions in a busy lobby to walk out with your things under the cover of many people.
One of the first signs of how a hotel treats the issue of security is to observe how hotel room keys are controlled. If the guest rooms still have the older style metal key, and it is checkout time and a pile of metal room keys is laying on the front desk, the hotel is not too concerned about your security. Anyone can take a key laying on the desk. This is not a big concern if the hotel is using electronic key cards but is if the metal keys have the room number embossed on it. You will find this more prevalent overseas.
Ask the front desk personnel not to announce your room number. Rather, tell them to write it down or point to it. If the desk clerk should do this, explain the problem and asked to be given another room. You never know who is listening. Your room number is a matter of security and the fewer people that know your whereabouts, the better. There’s no need to announce it to the entire hotel lobby.
When registering, sign only your last name and first initial. Don’t use titles or degrees. It makes it harder to determine gender, marital status or profession. If you are a woman traveling alone, you might consider booking your room as Mr. and Mrs.
Don’t leave your credit card lying on the check-in counter while you complete your registration. Also, make sure the credit card that is handed back to you by the hotel clerk is really yours.
Instruct the desk not to give out your name and room number and ask for them to call you if someone inquires about you.
Immediately upon check-in, get two business cards with the hotel name and address on them. Place one by the phone in the room, so you know where you are, and keep the other on you when you leave so you know where to come back to. If you get lost, you have the address and phone number handy. There is nothing more frustrating than telling a cab driver to take you to the “Marriott,” and they ask which one? That could be one very expensive cab ride. Or if you are in a country where you don’t speak the language, you can show a taxi driver the card and you’re on your way back to the hotel.

Hotel Room Safety Selection Tips

Maximize safety and security. Select a room located between the 4th and 6^thfloor. Avoid rooms above the sixth floor–the maximum height that fire-department ladders can reach. Some fire departments overseas, and even some within the United States, do not have the equipment to reach hotel floors above the 6th floor.
Whenever possible, do not accept a room on the ground floor that has doors and windows that open to the outside. Hotels with interior hallways tend to generally be safer. For security in motels, avoid ground floor rooms off the parking lot. If you can’t get a room on a higher level, take one facing the interior courtyard.
Guestrooms that are closer to the elevators are safer but tend to be noisier.

Elevator Safety

Women should be accompanied to the hotel room and the room should be checked, this can be done by a bellman, spring for the tip.
Observe all the passengers in the elevator.
It is wise to board last and select floor buttons last.
If possible, position yourself near the elevator control panel and, if attacked, push as many floor buttons as possible. Keep your back to the sidewall.
If someone suspicious boards an elevator, exit as soon as possible, even if it is not your floor.

After Checking into a Room, Examine the Following

Examine the guest room lock and be sure it is functioning properly.
The closets and bathrooms are checked to make sure no one is hiding.
All windows and outside doors are checked to ensure they lock and operate properly.
The lock on the adjoining door is checked to ensure it is locked and works.
The telephone is checked and you know how to make an outside call.
Look for information in the room about fire safety and read to become familiar with the nearest fire exit stairway. Locate the nearest fire exit. Find one at each end of the hallway. How many doors away? Does the door open easily? Are the exit signs illuminated? If the lights are out, be helpful, and contact the front desk to let them know. Is the stairwell clear of debris? Make a note on the back of the business card that you place by your bed, noting the number of doors away to the emergency exit, in each direction, and the location of the fire extinguisher and fire pull box.
When you enter your hotel room, make sure the door closes securely and that the deadbolt works. Keep the deadbolt and safety bar on at all times. It cannot be stressed enough that you should never prop your hotel room door open. Anyone could walk in.
Place your room key in the same place every time, preferably close to the bed.
If you have to leave the room in a hurry due to an emergency, you won’t have time to be searching for your key. Also, you’ll need the key to get back into the room.
When inside a hotel room, for whatever length of time always use the deadbolt. If the room does not a deadbolt or heavy-duty security clasp but has a chain, twist it to take up the slack before latching it.
Don’t open the door to your room unless you’re certain of who the person is on the other side.
If you receive a phone call to your room and the person states they are with the hotel and need to come to your room and repair something, use caution. Always get the employee’s name and call the front desk to verify that it was a legitimate employee who called you, and they do, in fact, need to come to your room.
If you want to test the hotel, call the front desk from a house phone and ask for yourself. Tell the operator you are not sure of the room number. If the answer is, “She’s in room 203,” this is not a good sign. The correct answer is, “I’ll connect you.” Good security requires that the hotel switchboard not give out room numbers and the best hotels strictly adhere to this policy.
When inside your room, use a door stopper when sleeping or in the shower. This may seem a little overkill but overseas, hotel burglars have been known to frequent hotels that use standard metal room keys that are easy to obtain. Unfortunately, many hotels do not change the locks to the doors when the keys are lost, the criminals know that many of the hotel rooms might contain valuables of the presumed wealthy western traveler from the United States. Some of the crooks are very bold. They have been known to listen to the room door to see if you are in the shower. If you are, they enter your room with the spare key (because no secondary door lock) and remove your wallet, purse, or laptop. If someone else is in the room the crook is well dressed and says “sorry, the front desk gave me this key.” By using a travel door stopper you keep everyone, even those with a key out.

Place a Flashlight or Your Phone Next to Your Bed

It’s much too dangerous to be stumbling around in a dark hotel in the middle of the night if the electricity goes out. Also, if you have to evacuate in the event of a fire, the flashlight will help guide you down a smoke-filled hallway.
Remember, if there is a fire or other emergency, you are pretty much on your own to evacuate yourself, especially at night. What you learn in the few minutes it takes you to orient yourself to your room and the surrounding areas could mean the difference between life and death.
If you lose your key, ask for a new room or have the lock or electronic key card changed.

When You Leave Your Hotel Room

When you leave your room, always leave the television on.
Place the “Do not disturb” sign on the door. If you want maid service, call to housekeeping and tell them to make up the room but leave the sign on the door. The sign is valuable when you aren’t in the room because it gives the impression you are still inside.
At night, leave a light on, and drapes should be partially opened as if someone was inside.
Always use the security vault in the hotel. The in-room safe is adequate sometimes. The ones least recommended are those that take standard keys (usually overseas). Preferred are those that have an electronic combination lock. The front desk deposit boxes are usually safer but more inconvenient.

What to Take When Leaving Your Hotel Room

Take only enough cash and one credit card for that outing.
Carry “bait money” for potential thieves. Throw it in one direction and run in the opposite direction should you become a target.
Wear minimal jewelry. Some women travelers wear only a simple wedding band in place of a diamond ring. Remember in some foreign destinations a diamond ring might be worth what someone there might earn in a year. Remove the temptation!
Protect money, credit cards, and passports with a body-hugging money belt.

Laptop Security in a Hotel Room

Laptop computers or other expensive items should be placed in the room safe, if it is slightly larger travel with a portable travel safe. Would you leave your wallet or purse sitting on the table in the middle of your room? Usually not, don’t do the same with an expensive laptop sitting there!

Hotel Parking Lots

If you valet park your car at the hotel, and the valet driver puts a card on your dash, make sure it does not show your room number, always keep it private.
Do not leave valuables in your vehicle. Crooks know that rental cars often contain items of value.
Park as close to an exit as possible or a well-lit part of the garage.
When approaching a car, always have keys in hand.
Women should keep purses close to their bodies not loose and dangling off a shoulder. Keep it in front of you with a hand on top of it. Do not feel awkward asking for an escort to your car. It is recommended to use the valet service at night, the extra cost is worth it.

Electonic pickpocketing RFID pickpockets, digital thieves, rfid blocking wallets

You may think of a pickpocket as a person that bumps into you to steal your wallet, but now there’s a different kind of pickpocketing and it’s called electronic pickpocketing. How do RFID pickpockets work, and why can they be so devastating? Tech-savvy RFID pickpockets, which are also known as “digital thieves,” can silently download your personal credit card information and ID data with handheld “skimming” devices, including some newer cell phones, that are simply held close to your wallet or purse.

Yes, your information on the RFID chip transmits through a wallet or purse. Why is this possible? It’s possible because many of the newly issued credit cards, driver’s licenses and all passports now have embedded RFID chips.

Do RFID Wallets Stop Electronic Pickpocketing

RFID chips send out electromagnetic signals with all the information stored on the card for electronic readers to capture. In the case of your passport, they can even broadcast your photo. RFID technology is a good thing, but in the hands of RFID pickpockets, it can be devastating. So how do you protect yourself from electronic RFID pickpockets who use electronic readers? You need to use RFID blocking wallets, purses, or other RFID blocking gear. These items have metal fibers woven inside of them to block the RFID transmissions. You could also wrap your cards in foil to stop transmission. So yes, RFID blocking wallets can protect your identity from falling into the hands of thieves, crooks, and scam artists.

Protect Your Identity & Personal Information with RFID Blocking Gear

The latest travel wallets, purses, backpacks and other gear, have RFID shielding built into the material of the product for your security and peace of mind. Wallets, bags, and backpacks that contain this RFID blocking material look like ordinary wallets and purses, except depending on their design, the product may entirely have RFID shielding, or may just have dedicated pockets to RFID shielding. It is in these RFID blocking pockets where you would place your wallet or other digital ID. You are most vulnerable to pickpockets, both regular and electronic, in crowded situations or in places where you place your things down like hanging your bag on the back of a chair in a restaurant. The results of being electronically pickpocketed can be devastating, so consider outsmarting the bad guys with RFID blocking gear. For your peace of mind, see an extensive collection of RFID blocking travel gear.

RFID blocking money belt, stop electronic pickpocketing

RFID blocking money belt. Hidden under your shirt it’s easy for you to access, but not thieves.

Anti-theft crossbody day bag has built-in RFID protected pockets

Classic Men's Leather Wallet with embedded RFID blocking technology stops electronic pickpocketing

Classic Men’s Leather Wallet Embedded with RFID Blocking Technology

What is RFID and Why Do I Need to Block it?

RFID stands for Radio Frequency Identification Devices. Today they are found in passports and credit cards to help speed up transactions. They transmit your account information plus personal details. Handheld scanners can read these chips through wallets and clothing up to several feet away. It is a form of electronically pickpocketing or identity theft. Newly issued credit cards, passports, and other IDs have embedded RFID chips.

Do RFID Wallets and other RFID blocking bags stop pickpockets? Yes, You can protect your personal data with the use of RFID blocking wallets and RFID blocking passport covers. These items contain a metal fiber mesh that makes a “cage” around the chip that radio waves cannot penetrate. All US Passports issued since October 2006 have RFID chips in them. The chip contains all the data that is on the first page including your photo. A growing number of states (New York, Michigan, Washington, Vermont) are now issuing special driver’s licenses “enhanced” with long-range RFID chips.

How Does RFID Work?

RFID, Radio Frequency Identification, is the technology that lets you simply wave your credit or identification card, passport or license in front of a nearby scanner instead of having to slide the magnetic stripe through it. The electronic scanner sends a signal which is received by an antenna embedded into the card, which is connected to the card’s RFID chip, thus activating it. Unfortunately, criminals with minimal technical skills can construct their own clandestine RFID readers with a few simple supplies. These devices can steal your private financial information quickly and silently—all the perpetrator needs to do is come near your wallet with the hidden card reader.

Credit cards have RFID chips

Does my Card Have an RFID Chip?

This is the important part if your card is equipped with PayWave or blink, indicated by a logo on the front or back of the card, then it has an RFID chip embedded in it. The absence of a PayPass logo, however, does not mean that your card does not have an RFID chip—call the customer service number on the back of your card. If you cannot get an answer from your bank you should protect your cards anyway to ensure that you do not fall victim to identity theft. Imagine how the theft of your identity while traveling could negatively impact your trip! You should be concerned if you carry an American Express Card, Visa, Discover, MasterCard or a passport.

Here’s the best and latest selection of RFID blocking wallets and gear to stop electronic pickpocketing.

Video Demonstration of RFID Pickpockets

Anti-Theft Waist Packs And Hip Packs Protect Your Gear

Question#1. Is your current waist pack an anti-theft waist pack? Would it stop a skilled thief?
Question #2 While out enjoying the sights, using public transportation, shopping or dining, where do you carry your wallet, passport, money, credit cards, phone, and other valuables? If you use a regular waist pack or purse or bag they can easily give you a false sense of security, no matter how close to your body you carry them. Upgrade your travel security gear and use an anti-theft waist pack or waist wallet and enjoy the benefit of being hands-free too. If you’re looking for something larger to secure more items consider an anti-theft cross body bag or purse for peace of mind.

Anti-Theft Waist Packs Offer Hidden Protection

A security waist pack, or anti-theft fanny pack, looks like a regular waist pack from the outside, but it’s the built-in security features that protect your valuables.

What Makes Anti-Theft Waist Fanny Packs so Special?

Security waist packs provide protection for your valuables in several ways. The following is a breakdown of the most common anti-theft features found in security travel fanny packs and bags.

Non-Cuttable Rear Strap

Street thieves know that tourists carry valuables in their waist packs. The rear strap of a regular waist pack is very vulnerable. Thieves know that the rear strap of a waist pack is usually made of a material that is easy to cut with a pair of scissors, a knife or even a razor blade. It only takes a second to slice the back strap of a regular waist pack and have it fall into waiting hands. To combat cutting most anti-theft waist packs have flexible steel cables integrated into the rear straps to stop cutting. The steel cables do not affect the comfort of the straps.

This design feature keeps the strap from being sliced by a razor blade or knife from behind. Slicing the back strap of waist packs is common on busy streets, in tourist areas, and on crowded train platforms. The rear strap of the anti-theft waist packs and hip packs are adjustable, just like a regular waist pack, and typically expand from 29 inches to 42 inches, some go up to 50 inches.

Zipper Security Technology Protects the Main Compartment

Travelon anti-theft classic convertible waist pack

Anti-theft waist packs have zipper pulls that lock and latch down. A skilled thief can quickly open a regular zipper on your bag without you noticing it. A moment of distraction and your valuables are gone. Anti-theft hip packs must have zipper pulls that lockdown and that require two hands to open them, that way you keep unwanted hands out of your gear.

Waist Strap Buckle Security

A good anti-theft hip pack will incorporate a hidden buckle feature that covers or hides the strap buckle; this prevents it from being easily squeezed open by someone else allowing the bag to drop off you and into their waiting hands.

RFID Blocking Technology

Credit cards, passports, and licenses now contain Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chips that contain your personal data and account information. Stop “electronic pickpockets” from accessing your personal identity information by placing your RFID-enabled cards in RFID blocking pockets. A quality anti-theft waist pack will offer RFID-blocking protection. Typically one pocket on the inside of the bag or waist wallet is lined with RFID blocking material to shield your data. Generally, when it comes to carrying your passport, we recommend you leave your passport in the hotel safe. Taking your passport with you opens you up to accidental loss, theft or even scams. If your lodging doesn’t offer a safe or you don’t trust that your possessions are 100% secure, carry your passport on your person.

Material – Anti Theft Packs Are Available in Various Durable Materials

Waist packs come in many fabrics some are reinforced so that they are”slice-proof” or “cut-resistant.” This construction prevents a thief from slicing the bottom of your bag with the hope that the contents will fall out into his waiting arms.

1. Ballistic Nylon

Originally developed for use in bulletproof vests, genuine ballistic nylon is one of the toughest fabrics in the world. The number 1050 “denier” refers to the weight of the fiber that goes into making a fabric. 1050 Denier is a heavier fabric that is strong and abrasion-resistant. This is a more rugged-looking material.

2. Feather-Weight Nylon

Sturdy yet lightweight is the best combination of fabric features when it comes to wearing an anti-theft waist pack or hip pack. These new designs are made with the latest fabric technology to be lightweight and easy care.

Waist Pack Sizes

Waist packs or hip packs come in various sizes, some can be converted to fit onto your own belt, and a few can be worn in other ways, making them versatile travel bags, not just waist bags. A current trend is to wear the larger bags bandoleer style with the pouch in front. Some travelers prefer to carry their valuables on their body so an anti-theft waist wallet worn next to your skin and under your shirt is ideal for them. So what size is right for you? Think about what you will want to carry for the day and shop for your waist pack accordingly.

See the price of this fashionable hip pack bag

Under-Clothing Styles

Underclothing styles are really larger money belts. These styles offer discreet protection of your valuables with built-in anti-theft features. They are designed to hold just your passport, money, a few cards and maybe your phone. They can be noticeable under your shirt when fully loaded. If you’re comfortable lifting your shirt a bit to access the waist pack then look for this style as having your shirt hanging over it over additional protection.

Best Fanny Packs and Waist Wallets for Travel

Pacsafe Coversafe X100 Anti-Theft RFID Blocking Waist Wallet,

Discreet, soft, and secure, waist wallet with RFID blocking technology to protect id, credit cards and passport from hacking scanning
Adjustable wire-reinforced slashguard waist strap fastens with a hidden buckle to help prevent theft.
Size (H x W x D): 5.3 x 10.2 x .25 in Strap Length 29 to 45 inches
Pockets: 1 interior slip

Zero Grid Money Belt w/RFID Blocking – Concealed Travel Wallet

Built-in RFID Blocking safeguards your passport and credit cards and personal information inside the wallet belt against identity theft.
EXCLUSIVE $300 TRIP ASSURANCE: In the event, items are stolen from this travel security belt.
Constructed from ultra-lightweight, water-resistant 210D Ripstop Nylon. Breathable, moisture-wicking backing. Adjustable; fits waists up to 40 inches.
Two zippered security compartments. Carabiner clip secures keys

BONUS GIFT – 7 RFID Blocking Sleeves (6 Credit Card & 1 Passport) – For use ONLY when your passport or credit cards aren’t inside the money belt.

VAN BEEKEN RFID Travel Money Belt Hidden Money Belts for Travel

2 premium security buckles and a unique double-waist-strap-system with 2 adjustable elastic straps for max security during travel or sports
Mesh fabric on the back helps avoid sweating, made of durable and water-resistant ripstop nylon
RFID protection, 2 big zippered front pockets, 3 inner credit card pockets and a hidden compartment on the back
Dimensions 14.5 x 5.9 x 1 inches

Travelon Anti-Theft Waist Pack with Water Bottle Holder

Locking compartments, slash-resistant body construction
RFID blocking organizer compartment
Adjustable strap accommodates a waist to size 50 inches
Pull out water bottle holder. Zips closed when not in use
Dimensions 11 x 7 x 3 inches

Travelon Anti-Theft Travel Waistpack

Pockets: 2 slip, 2 zip, 1 exterior
Smart zippers lock closed, RFIDsafe technology inside an interior pocket
Cut-resistant materials protect your belongings
Fits a 7″ tablet in a padded sleeve for extra protection
Dimensions 2.2 x 11 x 6.7

PacSafe High Security Waist Pack Anti-Theft Hip Pack

4 RFID protected card slots, 1 RFID protected passport
Anti-theft features include locking zippers, slash-resistant body panels, and a slash-resistant, adjustable strap that can be attached to a stationary object to prevent a grab-n-go theft, hidden buckle
water and stain-resistant material
Dimensions 10.5 X 17 x 2.5 inches, Fits up 56-inch waist

Travel/Running Belt Waist Fanny Pack Carry Phone, Passport, Keys, ID, Money

Slim design lay flat against the hip area, wear under or over clothing
Adjustable elastic strap fits 28″ to 45″
Perfect for running, walking, traveling, shopping and amusement parks.
Compartmentalized main pocket with two small side pockets
Measures 16 inches by 4 inches with a 9-inch main pocket
Made from neoprene fabric

Sling Chest Bag Cross Body Anti Theft Body Travel Bag Daypack

Large zippered pocket fits tablets. Small zippered pocket for phones, power bank, wallet, etc.
The shoulder strap length of this chest bag is 30-39 inches, fits smaller and larger people
Wear this bag as a chest bag for maximum security of possessions
Water-resistant material. Tucked in zipper pulls act as theft deterrent design
Anti-degaussing function prevents RFID copying or stealing of information

More About Anti Theft Fanny Belts / Waist Packs

Money belts now seem to be a standard element of a traveler’s accessories. They are more secure than a regular, backpack, purse, or hip pack. One suggestion is that you keep yours with your toiletry kit so you don’t forget to pack it. As a side note, I keep my toiletry bag, money belt, extra phone charger, and luggage locks all together so I don’t forget any of them while packing.

Fanny belts and anti-theft waist packs are fashion-forward again, they no longer scream American tourist. One reason is that most are designed to be flatter against your body and smaller in overall size. Why? Nowadays we longer carry big video cameras, regular cameras or guidebooks in our hip packs or waist packs. Our small and lightweight phones serve as both our video and a regular camera, GPS, and guidebook. Additionally, the benefit of being hands-free or having a secure place to keep your phone when not in use is appealing and smart.

Scams You Can Foil with a Security Travel Hip-Pack

Here is a couple of theft modus operandi. You may even know someone who has fallen victim to one of them.

Cardboard Children Scam

First off, a disclaimer. The term gypsy used is made in reference to a specific segment of the Roma population who support themselves through various organized criminal activities, and who call themselves Gypsies. The majority of Romany people are not criminals.

While not restricted to Europe, the “cardboard children” can be seen unabashedly choosing their victims, confronting them and making off with their valuables. This is how they operate. Roving bands of usually 6 to 10 children of various ages, confront you while holding a piece of cardboard. Usually, the cardboard has something written on it like “Food Please” or some other sympathetic plea. You are poked by the cardboard being shoved up against you. The purpose of the cardboard is to distract. While the gypsy children swarm you and press the cardboard against your body, they also create a scene by shouting and begging for money or candy. The distraction desensitizes your body to the feel of little hands entering pockets, wallets, purses, unsecured waist packs, or even cutting the strap of a waist pack or purse. The raucous event can take less than 20 seconds. As the pack of children dissipates, you regain your composure until you realize your valuable property is missing.

Train Platform Scam

This scam is frequently reported to take place on train/subway platforms, as well as on subways and buses. The crime almost always occurs when a crowd is present, allowing the thief to get very close behind an unsuspecting traveler. Due to the many people, it does not raise suspicion to be standing so close. When the train pulls up to the platform, everyone begins to “pulse” towards the opening door. When this occurs, the thief naturally presses up against your backside, unbuckles your unsecured waist pack, or more brazenly cuts the rear strap with scissors or razor blade allowing the bag to drop or slide off.

This is all quickly accomplished and goes unnoticed by you and fellow passengers caught in the chaos of boarding. A few moments later you go to place your hand on your pack, discovering its disappearance while the train or bus begins to move. A few seconds prior it fell into the hands of the “slight of hand” expert who removed it and most likely placed it in a shopping bag to conceal it. Often the thief does not stay on the train. Many times he simply turns around and exits the train, leaving you to go on to the next station.

Do you get checks, tax documents, bank statements, credit cards, or legal documents in the mail? Sign up for USPS informed delivery on the USPS website.
If you don’t, thieves could sign up first in your name and be informed before you are as to what is being delivered to you and whether it is worth stealing before you have a chance to get to your mail.

What the USPS informed delivery service does

Informed delivery is free and sends you a daily email with a digital preview of the mail you are to receive (images of the front of your letter-sized envelopes and manage packages scheduled to arrive). Informed Delivery benefits the entire household by allowing users to view what is coming to their mailbox whenever, wherever – even while traveling – on a computer, tablet, or mobile device. Some mailpieces (e.g., catalogs or magazines) are not imaged by our automated equipment and will not appear in your Informed Delivery notification. If a scan is detected on these types of mailpieces, users will see a message stating, “A mailpiece for which we do not currently have an image is included in today’s mail.”

Is USPS Informed Delivery Available to businesses?

Is Informed Delivery® available to businesses?

The feature is available to residential consumers and eligible personal PO Box™ addresses, but Informed Delivery is not currently available to business customers. The postal service hopes to offer Informed Delivery to small business customers in the future.

Why USPS informed delivery is important to claim for your name and address

Ironically, the same convenience of Informed Delivery that allows you to prevent ID theft can also encourage it, if you don’t sign up before an aspiring thief. The requirements to enroll in the service are few and basic you only need information which is public such as cities and addresses of prior residence and sale price of a home. A good thief can find these with a few keystrokes on the computer. And while not common is has happened and continues to do so. Enroll today, I have and I’m very happy with the service.

Upgrade to a locking or security mailbox to keep your mail safe

While more expensive than a regular mailbox, one designed with a lock has the additional benefit that they tend to be larger and you can, therefore, leave for a couple of days and not bother a neighbor to pick up the mail, or stop it with the postal service and know that it is secure. Easy to install a security mailbox works so that you can only retrieve delivered mail by opening the lock with a key to access the secure compartment.

In case your passport is lost or stolen in a foreign country, the need to act quickly is urgent. You need to report your lost passport soon as possible to the US Consulate or Embassy nearest you. They will then assist you in getting a replacement passport. Also, you need to know what you have to do next. There are crucial steps you need to take, considering that your lost passport contains your personal information. And identity thieves thrive on stealing other people’s personal information. Here’s what to do in case of a lost or stolen passport and how to do it quickly.

What it Feels Like When Your Passport is Stolen

Report the Missing or Stolen Passport to the Police

As soon as you realize your passport is missing, you should contact the nearest police authorities and make a police report. Obtain a copy of the police report whenever possible, or at least a receipt with the report number. It should be noted that a police report is not mandatory but may be required when the embassy/consulate believes a problem may exist such as possible fraud. An applicant eligible to receive a passport should not be placed in circumstances to miss a plane or unreasonably delay travel to obtain a police report.

Contact the US Embassy or Consulate

If out of the country and as soon as you find out that your passport is missing call the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Calling them is fast and convenient. However, you may be unable to contact them outside of the office hours, during weekends, and federal holidays and may have to wait until the next working day. Go online; you can contact some locations via the web.

Phone numbers for U.S. embassies and consulates are available here Country Specific Information and also here Key Officers Handbook. You will need to speak to the American Citizens Services Unit of the Consular Section. If you are scheduled to leave the foreign country shortly, please provide the Consular Section with details regarding your departure schedule. Every effort will be made to assist you quickly. You will also be directed to where you can obtain the required passport photos.

Submit a New Passport Application

You will be asked to fill out a DS-11 form, which is the standard passport application form. You are not required to know the passport number or issuance date to apply for a new passport. You can find the form on-line.

If the passport is still valid, you must also complete the DS-64 form to report the lost or stolen passport. You will be asked to report how, where, and when you lost your current passport, what you did to recover it, and what the end result was. This form must be submitted with the DS-11 application.

In emergencies, you may contact the National Passport Information Center (NPIC) for support by calling (877) 487-2778. They can be reached Monday through Friday from 8 a.m until 10 p.m. ET; an automated system is also available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you want to find out the status of an application, you can now check online.

If a Relative or Friend Tells You Their U.S. Passport is Lost/Stolen

If your friend or relative is out of the country you may wish to contact Overseas Citizens Services at (202) 647-5225 at the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C. providing as much information about possible about the person who needs passport services abroad. This will assist in trying to verify the person’s previous passport, clearing the person’s name through the Department Passport Name Check System, and relaying this information to the appropriate U.S. embassy or consulate to . Your relative/friend must apply for a new passport at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

Lost Passport Form Submission

To report a lost passport you must fill in a Form DS-64 and mail in the form. You cannot submit it electronically.The Form DS-6 contains your statement regarding your lost passport. Because of this, you need to be thorough and accurate when filling in the items in this form. Make sure you don’t leave any important item unanswered before submitting this paperwork.

Once you are done filling in the DS-64, you will have to submit it. You have the option of sending it through the mail or submitting it in person. A personal appearance is required should you decide to submit this form along with your application for a new passport.
The DS-11 is the form you’ll use to apply for a new passport. This form requires you to submit it in person. Today, you no longer need to go to the nearest passport office to get this form. Instead, simply download it from the US Department of State’s website. From there, you can fill in the form on your computer or you can print it out first before filling it in by hand.

Your US Passport is Invalid Once it is Reported Lost

Because of this, you will no longer be able to use your passport even if you recover it. This is done by the Department of State as a security measure to ward off identity thieves and fraud. And since an invalidated passport is no longer usable, you will need to get a new passport.

Process for Applying for a Passport- Info Graphic

Anti-Theft Classic Small Convertible Backpack

Pickpocketing and RFID digital ID theft are two ongoing problems affecting tourists around the world. San Francisco shows an increase in the numbers of pickpocketing crimes. Meanwhile, one thief at Coachella allegedly pickpocketed more than 100 phones at the music festival. Thieves have even been caught on video pickpocketing victims, who fall asleep on public transportation or subways. The bottom line is you can be a victim anywhere there are crowds.

When traveling overseas, Independent.co.uk reports pickpocketing is a major issue in the crowded tourist locations of Barcelona, Rome, Prague, Madrid, Paris, Florence, Buenos Aires, Amsterdam, Athens, and Hanoi.

While being pickpocketed is a crisis when you discover your wallet has been stolen, most people don’t report pickpocketing to the local police because there’s nothing they can do to investigate for a lengthy period of time. Most people don’t even bother with filing a police report because it’s a lower priority crime. Instead, the victim cancels his or her credit cards immediately and hopes his or her identity doesn’t end up in the wrong hands. The thieves know this and continue to victimized tourists.

Now, digital identity thieves are using RFID scanners and skimmers in public places to steal your credit card information without you knowing until your identity has been stolen and the financial damage is done. It only takes a few seconds to steal your information with a digital scanner or skimmer held close to your body. Identity fraud hit a record number of Americans in 2016. While your credit card may provide limited protection from fraud, it’s a fact that debit card holders have even less protection against theft because a bank account can be depleted in minutes. Passports now contain all your personal information on a RFID chip, so they can transmit your personal information too. For peace of mind when you travel to popular destinations protect your RFID chipped cards and passport, and protect your identity.

Travel Tips to Prevent Pickpocketing

It’s always important to take precautions to protect your identity, especially when you travel. Here are tips that will help you safeguard your credit cards, wallet, and digital identity from pickpockets.

Protect your passport, credit cards and identity with RFID blocking travel gear.
Only carry zippered purses; better yet upgrade to a handbag with an anti-theft locking zipper.
Limit the number of valuables in your handbag or backpack, dividing them up if you can.
Do not put your wallet into your back pocket, also known as the “sucker pocket” to pickpockets and thieves.
Limit yourself to carry only one credit card in your wallet.
Limit yourself to carry only one ID card or driver’s license in your wallet or handbag.
Limit the amount of cash you carry in your wallet or handbag.
Copy or take photos of your credit cards and passport in case they’re stolen, so you can your cancel credit cards quickly.
When getting cash, check the ATM machine for an illegal skimmer, best to use one found inside a bank.
Hold your belongings in front of you in crowded tourist areas, this includes public transportation and even churches.
Be aware of your surroundings or if someone is following you. Stop, step into a store, or turn around to confirm your suspicions.

Anti-Theft Travel Products to Prevent Pickpocketing or Digital ID Theft

There are also several products that help prevent you from becoming a victim of pickpocketing or ID theft while traveling.

Anti-Theft Hidden Money Travel Belt.RFID Blocking Front Pocket Wallet.

Anti-Theft RFID Hidden Travel Wallet.

RFID Blocking Security Waistpack.Anti-Theft RFID Blocking Wallet.

Anti-Theft Handbag with RFID Blocking Pockets, Locking Zippers, and Splash-Proof Straps, such as the Anti-Theft Signature 3-Compartment Cross Body Bag.Anti-Theft Backpack with RFID Protection.

RFID Blocking Credit Card & Passport Sleeves.

Scanner Guard Cards protect your credit cards and driver’s license inside your wallet.

Frequent flyer miles and travel rewards are worth money and just like money can be stolen. Protect your frequent flyer miles from hackers and theft from out of your account or wallet. Most of us just let them accumulate in our frequent flyer or mileage rewards accounts without much thought until it’s time for a flight upgrade, vacation, or redemption for merchandise. Thieves think of loyalty points or frequent flier miles as currency and that is why they target mileage and loyalty accounts for theft because they are valuable. According to Comparitech, hackers have now started infiltrating frequent flyer accounts and are selling stolen reward miles on the dark web.

How Thieves Steal Frequent Flyer Points

Thieves just need access to your account to book flights or hotels with your points or to transfer the points out for cash, gift cards, or merchandise. So how do they get access to your online accounts? The answer is by phishing scams and password theft. Once they have your login credentials they are in your account and your valuable points are at risk. Your personal data is becoming increasingly easy for thieves to steal via data breaches as data breaches are occurring multiple times a day each and every day.

What Hackers Do with Stolen Frequent Flyer Miles

Your frequent flyer miles can actually be sold on the dark web for money. The dark web is a network of black market sites for the selling of personal data including various account information details, credit card numbers, and social security numbers. Typically, redeemed frequent flyer points are valued at one to two cents per point or mile. Consider that an account holding 100,000 miles is then worth between $1000 and $2000. Miles from popular airlines like Delta, British Airways and Virgin Atlantic were listed for sale from $1,000. For 100,000 Virgin Atlantic Flying Club miles, one dark web seller was asking for $884. Another listing offered 45,000 Delta SkyMiles for $884. So you can see frequent flyer miles are valuable to thieves and hackers. The purchaser can possibly transfer the miles to their account and they can definitely buy many different types of gift cards, which of course, can’t be traced.

How to Protect Your Miles From Hackers and Theft

Follow these actions to mitigate the risk of having your frequent flyer accounts hacked.

Check your account balances regularly so you know how many points you have. Once a month is a good rule of thumb. if you notice any changes not authorized by you report them.
Rip up or shred boarding passes immediately after your flight as they can have your account number plus your name printed on them.
Use a strong and complex username and password, remember you’re guarding valuable points.
If your login suddenly doesn’t work, contact the airline or credit card points, program administrator.
Set up email auto alerts that are sent went points are withdrawn. Look under the “settings” tab to set up auto alerts or contact the site customer service team for advice on how to do so.
Use a points manager program where you consolidate and track all your points and miles. A good one is Awardwallet.com as they will notify you of any withdrawals.
Don’t use free public WiFi to access your frequent flier account.
Don’t put your frequent flier account number on your bag tag.

Hotel Safety Tips For Travelers