So that you can enjoy your vacation and there are no rude awakenings when you book or return, the “State and Federal Police Crime Prevention Program” (ProPK) has put together tips for a safe vacation.

When traveling

Security must be in your luggage, because thieves and fraudsters don't go on vacation. But you can protect yourself. This starts with the preparation, applies to the time you are away from home and of course also at the holiday destination.

“It is important before you start your vacation to copy all important documents, such as identification papers, and store them separately from the original so that you have all important documents ready quickly in the event of theft,” recommends Harald Schmidt, managing director of the state and federal police crime prevention department. “Ask a neighbor to regularly empty the mailbox and operate the shutters while you are away so that your home does not appear uninhabited. Do not leave any such messages on your answering machine or on social networks. “That could be an invitation for burglars,” advises Schmidt.

When booking online, you should check the provider carefully to avoid falling for a fake shop . The following applies: only pay by invoice or direct debit. Never pay in advance, otherwise the money may be gone.

Further tips from the police for a safe holiday:

  • In order to be able to block debit or credit cards immediately if they are stolen, write down the blocking emergency number 116 116 or save it in your mobile phone.
  • As a general rule, only exchange foreign currencies in financial institutions, never on the street. There, criminals could steal your money or plant counterfeit money.
  • Only buy tickets for excursions or tickets for events at the hotel or from official sales points, not from “hawkers” on the street.
  • Only take as much cash, payment cards or ID cards with you as you need and always carry them on your body (e.g. in a lockable inner pocket of your clothing, in a neck pouch or in a belt bag). Always keep an eye on your credit card when paying. Do not keep your personal identification number (PIN) in your wallet. Learn them by heart.
  • Never leave valuables and luggage unattended. Be especially careful in large gatherings of people, for example in crowds at train stations, airports or near tourist attractions. These are very popular with pickpockets.
  • Always carry your handbag by the shoulder strap and tuck it under your arm on the side facing away from the road so that passing cyclists or moped drivers cannot snatch it away.
  • Always lock your car, caravan, hotel room or holiday apartment, even if you are only away for a short time. Never leave money or other valuables lying around.
  • Before you use services such as taxi rides, excursions or tours, agree on a binding price.
  • If your payment card has been stolen, have it blocked immediately by calling the emergency number 116 116. After the blocking, inform your bank that manages your account. In order for your debit card to be blocked for the electronic direct debit (SEPA direct debit), which only requires a signature, you must report the loss of your card to the police. Only this can initiate a so-called voluntary KUNO blocking at trading companies.”

Source: Mettmann police

Related to the topic:
Cybercriminals don't go on vacation: Tips for safe online vacations


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