A safe word for travellers and family back home
Updated October 16, 2026 · 5 min read
When you travel, your family back home can’t see you, your phone number may change, and a call that you’re in trouble is hard to disprove. That’s exactly why scammers target travellers’ families. A few agreements before you leave make the difference.
Agree before you go
- A safe word that you’ve all said aloud.
- A rule: no money sent after a call, even a call from “you”, without a check.
- Your plans: where you’ll be, and how to reach you, so a call from an unfamiliar number isn’t a surprise.
- A second contact at home, such as a sibling, who knows your itinerary.
Prove it’s you from abroad
- Give the safe word first, before anyone asks for money.
- Use a saved number or a video call, not just a new number.
- With Countersign, your family can send a check to your phone and you answer yes or no from anywhere.
The scam to watch for
The stranded-abroad scam claims that you’ve lost your wallet or been arrested, and demands an urgent transfer. If you have agreed a safe word and a rule, your family has a calm response that doesn’t depend on recognising your voice.
If you lose your phone
Tell your family in advance how to reach you if that happens, such as a friend’s number or a hotel line, and agree that they should be suspicious of any new number asking for money unless it gives the safe word.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a safe word when I travel?
It’s a good idea. Scammers target families of people who are abroad, and your phone number or voice may not be a reliable signal.
What if I lose my phone and need money?
Agree in advance how you’d reach your family, and use the safe word. They should check with another contact before sending anything.