Traveling in the Digital Age: How to Stay Ahead of Hackers
Cybercrime can occur anywhere and at any time, which makes it crucial
to be aware of the risks that you face when away from your secure
networks at home. When you’re unfamiliar with your surroundings and the
people around you, it can be much easier to find yourself vulnerable to
cyber-attacks. Wherever your next getaway may be, we outlined a digital
safety checklist of things you can do to prepare your devices in advance
of your trip.
Quick tips to remember when traveling
- Back up your devices before you travel. If one of your devices is ever lost or stolen, this makes it easier to restore your data to a new device. You can also wipe sensitive information from your devices using apps like FindMy or Lookout Mobile.
- Inform your bank that you will be traveling. You can also use a designated credit card for travel to help you monitor transactions more closely.
- Always keep devices with you. Never store your computer or other electronics with sensitive data in checked luggage
- Use a personal internet connection or virtual private network (VPN). MiFis create a password-protected, personal mobile internet connection using WPA2, the best form of wireless encryption. A VPN service, downloaded to your device as an app, adds an extra layer of security.
- Use USB data blockers to securely charge your devices. Public charging ports and kiosks could be compromised and put your device at risk. A USB data blocker is a small device that prevents data transfer and malware while still allowing your device to charge.
- Consider using a privacy screen protector for your devices. A privacy screen protector offers enhanced security by obscuring your phone screen and the data on it to those sitting next to you.
