How will you ensure cybersecurity when traveling? How will you keep your data safe when you’re on a trip or an important journey?
During our travels, it’s easy to become so preoccupied with sharing our travel stories online. That way we easily forget to protect ourselves against cyber threats.
Well, in terms of cybersecurity, most people associate it with safe cyber practices at home. But, practicing such a habit is also important when you’re traveling. Why?
That’s because the more you travel and access public networks, the more exposed you are to cyber risks. With that said, here are some tips to help you keep cyber safe while traveling.
Create a Backup
Be sure to backup your data to another device or to the cloud before traveling. That will keep your data safe in case of a data breach or any unfortunate event. Which will lead to losing your data or device on the go.
Update Your Software
Operating systems in your devices all have built-in security systems. These systems get regular updates from the manufacturer. So, update your system whenever it is available.
Keeping your apps and OS updated will give you better security while you travel. So make sure that your devices have the latest security patches installed before leaving your home for traveling.
Physical Security
Keep your devices physically secure while in hotel rooms, airports, planes, or any modes of transportations. This will prevent any unauthorized access, physical theft, and any consequent data breaches. A good practice? Never leave your devices unattended in public spaces.
Locks and Passwords
It is fairly typical for vacationers to update social media networks with images and places as soon as they arrive. But, sometimes this can be problematic. Why so?
If cybercriminals have access to your social media pages, they can track your location. They can also use that information to break into your hotel rooms or even your home. Then, they can steal your valuables and other important things.
So, always be cautious with what you share on social media. Especially about letting people know where you are, or even when you’re not.
Public Wireless Networks
Connecting to public hot spots or wireless networks are available in hotels, planes, and others. But, that can be risky. That’s why you must always confirm with the staff the exact procedures and networks to connect.
Most often, hackers use these public networks to gather sensitive data. So, if you’re connected to public networks, make sure to use only “https” sites.
Additionally, avoid online shopping or accessing any sensitive data to avoid a security breach. And if possible, use your own network or use a VPN.
Public Computers
Today, more public places are allowing access through public computers. Examples of them are libraries, internet cafes, hotels, and even restaurants with available public computers.
As a traveler, you cannot trust these computers. Why? They may not be updated. Also, they may even have malicious viruses or software seeded in by hackers. That way they can access the traveler’s data, digital keys, or passwords.
