Based on what I've seen in my job and learned from colleagues at the State Department ...
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I think you and your friends will have enough common sense to avoid the mistakes that typical "stupid American" travelers make (e.g., assuming they have the same rights to free speech and being free of unreasonable search and seizure, or trying to bribe local police, or not respecting local cultural practices, etc.).
If you read up on the traveler information the embassies and consulates provide, you'll be far, far ahead of most travelers.
About the only other cautions I'd add are ...
Don't share cab rides with locals (especially in Southeast Asia). It's fairly common practice for low-level criminals to collude with cab drivers to use American tourists as cover for various activities. And sometimes it backfires on the American tourist (like Stacey Addison; http://www.oregonlive.com/portland/index.ssf/2015/03/stacey_addison_former_portland_2.html).
Use a cheap cell phone if you can. Don't take your work phone (obviously), but if you have time to pick up a decent pay-as-you-go phone instead of your personal phone before you leave, it's a good precaution. Cell phone hacking is more prevalent and aggressive overseas than it is here, especially in Southeast Asia and Central Europe these days.
If you want to take your personal smart phone, check with your provider beforehand. Ask about international coverage and security precautions.
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