Avoiding Scams and Theft While Traveling: Tips for Seniors

Common travel scams that seniors should be aware of include pickpocketing, ATM or credit card skimming, fake tour guides, and unsolicited offers for help or products.

Seniors can protect themselves from pickpocketing by keeping their valuables close to their body, using a money belt or hidden pocket, and being aware of their surroundings in crowded areas.

Seniors should immediately contact their bank or credit card company to report any suspicious activity on their account. They should also consider using cash or traveler’s checks instead of relying solely on their cards.

Seniors should only book tours with reputable companies and should be wary of anyone offering unsolicited tours or claiming to be a guide without proper identification. It’s also a good idea to research the area and attractions before arriving to get an idea of what to expect.

Seniors should politely decline any unsolicited offers for help or products and should be wary of anyone who seems too eager to assist them. It’s also a good idea to research common scams in the area before arriving to know what to look out for.

Other tips for avoiding scams and theft while traveling include being aware of common scams in the area, using a hotel safe to store valuables, carrying a photocopy of important documents such as passports and tickets, and avoiding carrying large amounts of cash.