Many travelers rely on technology to enhance their travel experiences. Before embarking on summer adventures, follow these simple steps to help keep devices safe and vacation plans from going awry.
Getting ready to go
- Travel light: Packing more devices means more cyber risk.
- Check settings: Enable the privacy and security settings on web services and apps to limit how and with whom you share information (such as location tracking).
- Set up the “find my phone” feature: This function allows users to find and remotely wipe data from and/or disable the device if it’s lost.
- Password-protect devices: Set up a passcode or extra security feature (such as a fingerprint) to unlock your phone or mobile device in case it’s misplaced or stolen.
- Update software: Ensure that all security and critical software is up to date on connected devices and keep them updated during travel. To be safe, enable automatic updates.
- Back up files: Don’t forget to back up the information on your device, including files and photos.
On the go
- Actively manage location services: Location tools come in handy when navigating a new place, but they can also expose user location, even through photos. Turn off location services when not in use.
- Use secure Wi-Fi: Do not transmit personal info or make purchases on unsecured or public Wi-Fi networks. Instead, use a virtual private network (VPN) or your phone as a personal hotspot to surf more securely.
- Think before you post: Pause before posting pictures that indicate you are away from home. Wait until you get home to share your memories.
- Protect physical devices: Keep devices with you at all times. Ideally, use a locked hotel safe or keep them in locked luggage. Don’t leave devices unattended with strangers.
- Stop auto-connecting: Disable remote connectivity and Bluetooth. Some devices will automatically seek and connect to available wireless networks, and Bluetooth enables a device to connect wirelessly with other devices, such as headphones or automobile infotainment systems. Disable these features so that you connect to wireless and Bluetooth networks only when you want to. If you do not need them, switch them off.
- If you share computers, don’t share information: Be extremely cautious on public computers in airports, hotel lobbies and internet cafes. Keep activities as generic and anonymous as possible. If you do log in to personal or professional accounts, such as email, always click “logout” when you are finished. Simply clicking the “X” on a browser does not log you out of accounts.
Additional resources
FCC: Cybersecurity Tips for International Travelers
ID Theft Center: Travel Safe Blog
Consumer Reports: What You Need to Know About Cyber Safety While Traveling
Original article: Vacation and Travel Security Tips by the National Cybersecurity Alliance