Avoid Becoming a Victim of Passport and Identity Theft While Travelling

One of the most common problems the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) deals with is assisting British passport holders after the theft of their passports while abroad.  Wallets are also an obvious target.  The problem is rife and can occur in any part of the world.  Hotel safes and deposit boxes unfortunately are also not immune to theft, so it is a huge problem. 

If the worst should happen and you become a victim while abroad you will need to report the theft to the local police and obtain a police report.  The report will be required by your travel insurance provider to make a claim for theft, and also for the Consulate to issue a replacement passport.  (The police authorities in some countries may not be willing to provide a report for stolen passports, and in this case the requirement will be waived).  Contact the closest British embassy or consulate to report the passport theft and fill in form LS01 – to cancel the passport.  Identity theft is an increasing problem, and unfortunately British nationals are a prime target.

Tip: Make a photocopy of the information page of your passport and other important documents and keep them separate from the originals while travelling. It is also a good idea to leave a set of copies with a trusted loved one at home.  For more excellent travel tips, advice and information visit the FCO website.  Their Know Before You Go section is a must for travellers before setting off. The FCO recommends that all travellers should take out Travel Insurance before leaving home, so obtain your no-obligation quote for Travel Insurance  now - before you forget!

This entry was posted on Monday, August 11th, 2008 at 11:29 am and is filed under Holiday Destinations, Travel News .

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