Protect yourself and your family before you travel. Complete these steps to stay safe from cyber threats abroad.
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Pre-Flight Security Checklist
Account Security
Device Preparation
Emergency Preparation
Financial Safety
Tourist-Targeted Scams to Watch For
Fake WiFi Networks
Criminals set up WiFi hotspots with names like 'Airport_Free_WiFi' or 'Hotel_Guest' to intercept your data.
Common locations: Airports, hotels, cafes, tourist areas
How to stay safe:
Always verify the official WiFi name with staff
Use a VPN for all connections
Avoid accessing banking on public WiFi
Turn off auto-connect to open networks
ATM Skimmers
Hidden devices attached to ATMs capture your card data and PIN. Particularly common at tourist-heavy locations.
Common locations: Standalone ATMs, tourist districts, train stations
How to stay safe:
Use ATMs inside banks when possible
Wiggle the card slot before inserting
Cover your PIN with your hand
Check for hidden cameras above the keypad
Fake Taxi/Rideshare Apps
Fraudulent apps that look like Uber or local taxi services, designed to steal payment info or overcharge tourists.
Common locations: Airports, train stations, hotel pickups
How to stay safe:
Download official apps before traveling
Verify the driver's photo and license plate
Never pay cash if app shows card payment
Share your ride details with someone
Currency Exchange Fraud
Unofficial exchangers offer great rates but shortchange you, use rigged calculators, or pass counterfeit bills.
Common locations: Street corners, small shops, tourist areas
How to stay safe:
Use bank ATMs for best exchange rates
Count money before leaving the counter
Know the current exchange rate beforehand
Avoid exchangers who approach you on the street
QR Code Scams
Fake QR codes placed over legitimate ones redirect you to phishing sites or malware downloads.
Common locations: Restaurants, parking meters, tourist info boards
How to stay safe:
Check if QR code looks tampered or pasted over
Verify the URL before entering any data
Don't scan random QR codes from flyers
Use your camera app, not third-party scanners
Charging Station Attacks
'Juice jacking' uses public USB ports to install malware or steal data while your phone charges.
Common locations: Airports, malls, cafes, hotel lobbies
How to stay safe:
Carry your own portable power bank
Use a power-only USB cable (no data)
Use wall outlets with your own adapter
Decline 'Trust this device' prompts
US Embassy Contacts by Destination
Save your destination's embassy contact before you travel. In an emergency abroad, the embassy can help with lost passports, medical emergencies, or if you're a victim of crime.
Select your destination to see embassy contacts
Need Emergency Contacts for Your Destination?
Our Emergency Help page has local police, cybercrime units, banking hotlines, and mobile money fraud contacts for 50+ countries worldwide.