Tips for Tuesdays: Stolen Passport or Wallet

Today's Tip: It's your worst nightmare: you passport or wallet is stolen while you're on the road. What should you do? First, before your trip, scan copies of all your IDs and email them to yourself so you'll have easy access to the information (be sure to keep your phone, laptop, or tablet password-protected). Keep your credit card numbers, bank contact information, and passport details on an encrypted storage app such as Wallet ($19.99, available for iPads and iPhones). Call your bank immediately to cancel any missing or stolen cards; you likely won't be held liable for fraudulent purchases, and most bank with international branches can issue a new card within 24 hours. To replace your passport, contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate (see www.usembassy.gov for a directory). Mention your departure date to expedite the process and bring copies of any documentation to prove your identity.