2.26.2012

Going Overseas - Why You Should Protect Your Passport

By Glenn Matthews


When you register at hotels or enter some countries, it is likely you will be asked to fill out a police card listing your name, passport number, destination, local address, and reason for travel. You may be required to leave your passport at the hotel reception desk overnight so that it may be checked by local police officials. These are normal procedures required by local laws. You should immediately report the impoundments to local police authorities and to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate if your passport is not returned the following morning.

What is Passport Fraud?

U.S. passports are sometimes used for illegal entry into the United States, or by criminals abroad seeking to establish another identity and this was shown in law enforcement records. This can cause embarrassment to innocent U.S. citizens whose names become associated with illegal activities. Consular officers overseas have found it necessary to take precautions in processing lost passport cases in order to protect the integrity of the U.S. passport and the security of the person bearing it. Some delay before a new passport is issued may be involved in these precautions.

Can you Safeguard Your Passport?

Carelessness is the main cause for losing a passport or having it stolen. Sometimes, carrying your passport with you is a must due to the fact that you need to show it when you cash traveler's checks or the country that you are visiting requires you to carry it as an identity document. Be sure that when you do carry your passport, hide it securely on your person. Avoid leaving it in a handbag or even in an exposed pocket. When it's possible, you should leave your passport in the hotel safe, not in an empty hotel room, and not packed in your luggage. One family member should not carry all the passports for the entire family.

Guard Against Thieves

Coat pockets, handbags, and hip pockets are particularly susceptible to theft. To divert your attention just long enough to pick your pocket and grab your purse or wallet, thieves will use all kinds of ploys. Creating a disturbance, spilling something on your clothing, or even handing you a baby to hold are some of these ploys.

You can try to prevent theft by carrying your belongings in a secure manner. Not carrying a purse or wallet when going along crowded streets is one such example. Women who carry a shoulder bag should keep it tucked under the arm and held securely by the strap. Men should money belts instead of hip pockets and should put their wallets in their front trouser pockets. A wallet wrapped in rubber bands is more difficult to remove without notice. Being especially cautious is essential if you happen to be in the subway, on buses, at the marketplace, at a festival, or if surrounded by groups of vagrant children . Do not make it easy for thieves!




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