A passport is an official document issued by a government certifying the holder’s identity and citizenship. A passport also entitles the holder to travel, under its protection, to and from foreign countries. When you obtain a Canadian passport, you pay a consular free which provides a service to you, should you ever be in need of support while travelling. This service includes evacuation in cases of civil unrest, assistance to victims of crime, advice and guidance to persons having legal difficulties with local authorities, searches for missing persons and many more services available through embassies and consulates throughout the world.
Because of these services and the certification of identification, a passport from any country is very valuable and a stolen passport can be worth a large sum of money on the black market. Even though technology has created security measures to prevent the misuse and manipulation of passports, criminals are also utilizing technology that enables them to forge stolen passports for their own purposes. The following suggestions will help reduce the likelihood of having your passport stolen while travelling:
* Separately register your passport number for easier replacement if it is stolen * carry your passport securely on your person out of view * at your destination, keep your passport in a secure location. I.e. a safety deposit box * if your passport is carried in a purse, the handbag should be hung on the shoulder or be carried in your hand. Wrapping the strap around your wrist or across your body could result in personal injury if the purse is removed forcefully * if your passport is carried on your person, it should be carried in a front pocket and not in a rear pocket or suit jacket.
A lost or stolen passport must be reported to the police so that a full report can be submitted to the proper authorities. The consulate will provide you with a replacement passport however the cost for this replacement passport may be substantial.
For further information concerning the Safety of Your Passport, contact your local Crime Prevention Officer by calling 8082222 or contacting your local division.
“Protect Yourself While Travelling Protect Your Passport!”
Article extracted from this publication >> August 21, 1996
