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forward an email or Facebook posting that contains critical dates and destinations. Also make sure your kids understand that this information is off limits until you're safely home.
• Streamline your wallet. Don't carry too much personal information. You'll of course need identification, like a driver's license or passport, but don't bring your Social Security card or other highly sensitive papers. But do carry your health and car insurance identification. Also, photocopy, scan or make a list of your wallet's contents and keep it in a secure location, such as a hotel safe; and leave a copy with someone at home you can call should your wallet be stolen.
• Electronic precautions. Whenever logging onto the Internet at a Wi-Fi hotspot, hotel business center or other public facility whose server may not be encrypted, be extra cautious before conducting online banking or other password-protected transactions. And, it probably goes without saying, but your computer and cellphone should always be password protected in case of theft.
• Safeguard your home. If no one will be housesitting in your absence:
• • Have the post office hold your mail.
• • Suspend newspaper subscriptions.
• • Park a car in the driveway and put a prominent interior light on a timer.
• • Ask a friend or neighbor to remove fliers, packages or free newspapers.
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• Have a great vacation. Just don't forget to take basic identity theft precautions.
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• Jason Alderman directs Visa's financial education programs. To Follow Jason Alderman on Twitter: www.twitter.com/PracticalMoney.
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