Cybersecurity Checklist: 9 Ways to Stay Safe During Summer Travel

With the arrival of summer, many of us eagerly plan our holidays. Whether you’re heading to exotic locales or taking a trip closer to home, remember that cybersecurity should be on your travel checklist. From securing your devices to protecting your personal data, here are some simple tips to ensure you have a cyber-safe summer…

• Leave your company devices at home: For non-work-related trips, do not take work devices with you. Instead, keep them in a safe place at home.
• Update, update, update: Before you set out on your trip, make sure all your devices – from smartphones to laptops – have up-to-date software and security patches. These updates often contain critical security fixes that can protect your devices from known security vulnerabilities.
• Secure your devices: Protect your devices from prying eyes and opportunistic cybercriminals by setting up strong passwords, PINs, or biometric authentication. Consider turning on device encryption for an extra layer of security, especially if you will be transporting sensitive information.
• Beware of Public Wi-Fi: While it may be tempting to connect to free Wi-Fi hotspots at airports, cafes and hotels, these networks can be a haven for cybercriminals. Avoid accessing sensitive information such as online banking or personal emails over public Wi-Fi. If you must use one, consider using a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your internet connection.
• Practice safe surfing: Be careful when clicking links or downloading attachments, especially in emails or messages from unknown sources. Cybercriminals often use phishing tactics to trick travelers into revealing confidential information or installing malware on their devices.
• Monitor your accounts: When traveling, carefully monitor your bank accounts, credit cards and other financial accounts. Report any suspicious activity or unauthorized transactions to your financial institution immediately.
• Back up your data: If your device is lost, stolen or tampered with while traveling, make sure you have safely backed up your important data. Consider using cloud storage services or external hard drives to back up photos, documents, and other valuable information.
• Be careful on social media: It’s tempting to share vacation photos and updates on social media, but be careful about oversharing. Avoid posting specific details about your itinerary or location, as this information could be used by cybercriminals to target you.
• Stay alert: Stay alert while traveling and trust your instincts if something feels off. Keep an eye out for suspicious behavior, such as someone looking over your shoulder while you’re typing on your device, and report any concerns to authorities or hotel staff.

And most importantly, have a nice trip! Don’t let cybersecurity concerns cloud your vacation. By following these simple tips and staying vigilant, you can enjoy a safe summer getaway without worrying about cyber threats.

Safe travels!