If you’re planning a vacation this summer, the last thing you’re probably thinking about is having your identity stolen or your personal and financial information compromised. But given how much sensitive data we store on our laptops, tablets and phones, you should definitely give some thought to protecting your devices before you set off on your summertime adventures. The best way to secure your data is to leave your devices at home, but in this day and age it’s unlikely that most vacationers will be willing to part with them.
If you must bring your devices with you while traveling, here are 7 tips to help keep them as secure as possible:
1.) Update apps and operating systems before traveling. An outdated app or an old operating system could put you at risk of having your device and its data compromised. Before you leave for your trip, ensure that your operating system and all of your apps are updated to the latest versions possible, and ensure that all of your security software is up-to-date as well.
2.) Lock down your devices. Make sure that your devices have strong passwords or passcodes in place to prevent unauthorized access. When possible, use multi-factor authentication or fingerprint or facial login functionality for added security.
3.) Don’t use public Wi-Fi. While on vacation you may be tempted to use public Wi-Fi networks, such as those available in airports, coffee shops, and hotels. It’s best to steer clear of public Wi-Fi networks altogether, but if you absolutely must use one, be sure to not conduct any sensitive activities like online banking or shopping. Any time you’ll be utilizing or entering sensitive information, or visiting sites that contain your sensitive information (think credit card numbers, bank account details, healthcare accounts, etc.) you’ll want to use a secure network instead. Public Wi-Fi leaves you susceptible to having cyber thieves intercept your information. A good rule of thumb is to disable your device’s Wi-Fi connection altogether so that it won’t automatically connect to unknown networks.
4.) Be aware of public charging stations. If you can help it, try to avoid public charging stations. It’s important to keep in mind that with most electronic devices, the same cable that is used to supply power is also used to sync and transfer data. This gives criminals an opportunity to execute a cyber scam called “juice jacking”. In this type of attack, crooks can gain access to or download malware and viruses onto your devices through malicious charging kiosks. If you must charge your device in a public place, your best bet is to plug the device directly into a wall outlet with your own cord. And if you do so, just make sure you don’t leave your phone, tablet, or laptop unattended while it’s charging.
5.) Don’t connect your device to a public computer. You should never plug your device into a public computer, like the ones found in public libraries. These machines could contain malicious software that could infect your devices.
6.) Turn off your Bluetooth when not in use. An active Bluetooth connection gives cyber crooks an opportunity to pair with your device and gain access to your data and sensitive information.
7.) Turn off location sharing. You may need to use your phone for directions and maps, but consider turning off location sharing on apps you won’t need on your trip. You don’t want strangers to know your whereabouts, especially when you’re in unfamiliar surroundings. Also, it’s never a good idea to broadcast that you’re out of town, as crooks could use the opportunity to break into your home while you’re away.
Your vacation should be a time of relaxation and enjoyment, and it can stay that way if you take the necessary precautions to protect your devices and data. We hope you have a wonderful and cyber-safe vacation!
If you must bring your devices with you while traveling, here are 7 tips to help keep them as secure as possible:
1.) Update apps and operating systems before traveling. An outdated app or an old operating system could put you at risk of having your device and its data compromised. Before you leave for your trip, ensure that your operating system and all of your apps are updated to the latest versions possible, and ensure that all of your security software is up-to-date as well.
2.) Lock down your devices. Make sure that your devices have strong passwords or passcodes in place to prevent unauthorized access. When possible, use multi-factor authentication or fingerprint or facial login functionality for added security.
3.) Don’t use public Wi-Fi. While on vacation you may be tempted to use public Wi-Fi networks, such as those available in airports, coffee shops, and hotels. It’s best to steer clear of public Wi-Fi networks altogether, but if you absolutely must use one, be sure to not conduct any sensitive activities like online banking or shopping. Any time you’ll be utilizing or entering sensitive information, or visiting sites that contain your sensitive information (think credit card numbers, bank account details, healthcare accounts, etc.) you’ll want to use a secure network instead. Public Wi-Fi leaves you susceptible to having cyber thieves intercept your information. A good rule of thumb is to disable your device’s Wi-Fi connection altogether so that it won’t automatically connect to unknown networks.
4.) Be aware of public charging stations. If you can help it, try to avoid public charging stations. It’s important to keep in mind that with most electronic devices, the same cable that is used to supply power is also used to sync and transfer data. This gives criminals an opportunity to execute a cyber scam called “juice jacking”. In this type of attack, crooks can gain access to or download malware and viruses onto your devices through malicious charging kiosks. If you must charge your device in a public place, your best bet is to plug the device directly into a wall outlet with your own cord. And if you do so, just make sure you don’t leave your phone, tablet, or laptop unattended while it’s charging.
5.) Don’t connect your device to a public computer. You should never plug your device into a public computer, like the ones found in public libraries. These machines could contain malicious software that could infect your devices.
6.) Turn off your Bluetooth when not in use. An active Bluetooth connection gives cyber crooks an opportunity to pair with your device and gain access to your data and sensitive information.
7.) Turn off location sharing. You may need to use your phone for directions and maps, but consider turning off location sharing on apps you won’t need on your trip. You don’t want strangers to know your whereabouts, especially when you’re in unfamiliar surroundings. Also, it’s never a good idea to broadcast that you’re out of town, as crooks could use the opportunity to break into your home while you’re away.
Your vacation should be a time of relaxation and enjoyment, and it can stay that way if you take the necessary precautions to protect your devices and data. We hope you have a wonderful and cyber-safe vacation!