It’s almost that time of the year again. You’ve worked hard and now it’s time to relax and enjoy a well-earned holiday. But, before you get to lay by the pool there’s a couple of things to think about so as your information stays safe, no matter if you’re travelling home or abroad.
While you are already benefiting from security features developed to protect your personal data such as passwords, usernames, and credit card numbers it’s always good to be proactive and consider how you will ensure your private details stay private while you enjoy a carefree break.
Here’s our 7 top tips to keep your devices secure while travelling:
Get the latest updates for your smartphone or device.
One of the first line of defense is keeping up-to-date with the latest updates for your device. Ensuring security measures are fully updated on old and new devices is wise.
Old and obsolete security leaves your gadgets vulnerable to thieves and hackers. And since you use your device for all kinds of personal transactions on your mobile device, maintaining a solid level of security is one of the best things you can do.
Activate auto lock and Password protection on your devices before Leaving.
If you haven’t been using password protection and your devices auto lock features now’s the time to start. It’s a good way to ensure that if you accidentally leave your laptop or phone unattended, or it’s lost or stolen, a would-be criminal will have a much harder time getting into your device if there’s a password set. It’s simple and easy to do and could prevent unwanted access to your life.
Turn off Bluetooth connectivity
Bluetooth is a great feature to use in the car or at home, after all it’s pretty safe to communicate with other electronic devices. However, most of us forget to turn Bluetooth off when we are in public places, especially when we travel.
With Bluetooth connectivity left open, anyone sitting nearby in a hotel lobby or nearby coffee shop can pick up your signal and access your phone. This can happen with speed and without your knowledge so the only way to avoid the threat is to keep this feature turned off while you’re on holidays.
Only Use secure Wi-Fi
This is probably one of the most important measures to take especially if you’re traveling abroad this summer. Other countries don’t have the same regulations on public Wi-Fi as Central Europe does, so sticking to a password-protected network, like the ones offered at most hotels, is your safest option if you need to access the Internet.
Similarly, if you use a public computer to access your email or check your flight details, always make sure you’ve logged out of your account before leaving. Look for the HTTPS extension at the beginning of the URL to ensure it is protected and avoid free public Wi-Fi whenever possible.
Leave Smart Devices locked in the safe.
Most hotel rooms have safes for storing sensitive info or valuables while traveling. Use the safe to store any smart devices you don’t need for the day, like a laptop, USB, external hard drive, or wearable technology. Don’t leave these things lying around your hotel room for anyone to sneakily grab.
Check sensitive accounts regularly
Before you leave your accommodation for a day of sightseeing, get into a routine of checking sensitive financial accounts. Also, check them when you get back. The sooner you spot fraudulent behavior, the better. Just make sure you log out of your accounts after each use!
Don’t Broadcast Your Vacation on Social Media.
Isn’t it exciting to share your holiday plans with the whole of your social media? Hang on a second though… You don’t hang a sign on your home letting everyone know your plans so why do it on social media?
By broadcasting your location across social media every few hours is in fact telling online criminals that you’re not at home, where you may have left important personal data unsecured—and let’s not forget about your house and valuables !
Perhaps try to post all your pictures after you get back home and limit the amount of information you share on your specific whereabouts when using social media.
No matter where you’re traveling, home or abroad. Enjoy your journey with peace of mind. Follow these seven tips, and you’ll enjoy a secure and memorable holiday.
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