Holidaymakers ‘need to keep passports safe’

Many Brits are failing to look after their own passports, claims new research.According to HolidayExtras.com, travellers, such as those enjoying cheap flights to Thailand, can be concerned about having their passport stolen while overseas; however, it is nearly as likely that holidaymakers will lose their own passport.

Figures show that two per cent of people claim to have had their passport stolen while abroad, a further two per cent admitted losing the travel document themselves, while one per cent had their passport stolen as a result of being pickpocketed or burgled.

HolidayExtras.com’s managing editor, Mike Whiting, said: “If your passport falls into the wrong hands it could not only be sold on the black market, but the details could be used for identity theft.”

He added that it may cost over £70 to get a replacement from the Identity and Passport Service.

A newly designed UK passport is set to be introduced in October and has been developed to incorporate increased security and anti-fraud measures.

Written by Ruth Norris.