Costa Rica Top Security Tips For Tourists

"Beware of the pickpockets" - that is the standard byline you get to see in the interior of every public transport, and why? Because travelers are the principle target of thieves.  More than regular passengers, tourists undertaking a longer journey and lodging in foreign lands are a far easier prey.   The holidays, often in a relaxing, vacation mood forget to take adequate precaution against prying eyes. They also tend to rely on the often faulty security measures offered by the hotels. 

Here are other tips to help you avoid cutting your vacation short by being a victim of delinquents.

1. Make copies of your ID and cards: In preparation for your travel, make copies of your driver’s license and passport, credit and debit cards, and anything else that would be important to replace while away.  Make it a point to carry your most vital documents such as passports and other valuables in your possession and keep the copies in your checked suitcase or carry-on bag, in case you misplace the originals in the bustle of the airport — or worse, they are lost or stolen while you are on the road. Also, it is recommended that you leave copies with a trusted family member or friend, so if you are stranded without them you can get proof of identity and credit card numbers sent to you.
   
2. Keep medical records handy but concealed: If you need or want to travel with medical records, bring physical copies of your prescriptions, proof of vaccinations, medical and allergy history, and a brief description of your medical condition, to be used in case of a medical emergency. Keep these records concealed but accessible, either on your person (in a pocket, purse or belt bag) or in a carry-on bag.
3. Save the toll-free numbers for card companies in your phone: Notify banks and companies that issued your credit or debit cards that you are traveling, and certainly use all credit cards with awareness so they are not lost or stolen. But before you travel, put all of the international and U.S. emergency phone numbers for your credit card companies somewhere you can access them easily. Write them down to store in a safe place, or save them into your cellphone contacts. You won't waste time if you need to report a card as stolen or lost. Find these numbers on the back of your credit card, or online on their website.
4. Don't use public Wi-Fi for financial and health information: In airports, hotels, restaurants and cafés — is convenient when traveling, but it comes with security risks, according to Norton, a cybersecurity and identity-theft protection company. Norton recommends avoiding the use of public Wi-Fi to access any of your financial or health records, in case a cybercriminal is watching your activity.  According to Norton, public Wi-Fi is safe for finding a restaurant in town or checking the weather forecast — anything that can't risk information being stolen.
5. Don't use USB charging ports in public spaces: It is possible for people to gain access to information on your device when you use the USB cables at public charging stations, such as those available at gate kiosks all over many airports. It is possible for hackers to install malware or viruses, steal your information or install ransomware on your phone, which allows them to hold your device ransom in exchange for money. Instead, bring a portable charger to charge your devices, or find a power outlet to charge your devices with a cord charger.
6. Use ATM's that are located in well-lit and public areas.
7. Always be aware of your surroundings:  Check on your voice pitch (in case you are a 'loud-speaker') while stepping into a hotel. Who knows but you might unaware let out much information about yourself! Thieves might fake your name to get an easy access into your room. And you know the rest!   When you check out of a hotel, destroy all records of your personal information given during check in.  This prevents any future risks to your security.  While you are at your hotel, make it clear with the hotel staff to lock the door each time they leave.   Always be mentally prepared to escape from the site of trouble and for this you must be careful enough to take note of the exit points of the room/hall of the hotel you're occupying.

Finally, be extra cautious with your wallet. After all, pickpockets have universal access!  Carry your money preferably in a money-belt under your clothes. Ladies must keep their money tucked close to their body and don't carry all your money in a single place. 

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