Cybersecurity is a subject that must be taken seriously at all times, even when you take a trip. When organizing your vacation, it is important to take into account all of the necessary safety precautions in order to have a cybersecure trip.
Usually we take our mobile devices everywhere and tend to use them often, both at home and at work. During this time one rarely stops to consider that we will be in areas that do not offer the same level of security that they were expecting. This means that if certain precautions aren’t taken, one could easily become the next victim of a cyberattack.
You don’t need to cancel your well-deserved vacation, just follow these simple tips and enjoy your experience from start to finish.
Tips for a cybersecure trip
1. Block your devices.
The first recommended measure is the simplest. Block your devices with the options available to you, using either a PIN number or a fingerprint ID. While traveling, change them regularly.
2. Be cautious of public Wi-Fi.
When traveling, we are always looking for a Wi-Fi connection. This is why it is important to exercise caution with free access networks as they tend to be the most dangerous. It is best to use Wi-Fi encrypted and to ask the hotel about the security protocol they use before connecting.
3. Avoid accessing your personal data in non-secure connections.
If it is necessary to use a public Wi-Fi connection, avoid accessing personal accounts or confidential data while you are connected to that network. Do not make purchases online or click on advertising banners, and if possible, try not to consult bank accounts.
4. Disable automatic connection.
Most phones, tablets and computers have a configuration that allows you to automatically connect to Wi-Fi networks available in your area. This exposes you to unsafe internet connections without you even knowing it. Before traveling, change this setting so that you must connect your devices to the internet manually.
5. Share your location in a limited way.
It is common to use social networks to share your location with your followers, this can be a threat to your safety. Pointing out your location can signal to criminals that you are not at home or at the hotel where you registered. Limit the information you publish online to avoid these types of threats.
6. Deactivate Bluetooth connectivity.
Like automatic Wi-Fi connectivity, Bluetooth connection can also be a risk. Bluetooth signals can come from anywhere and if your device has it on, nearby attackers can access your mobile. Keep your Bluetooth disabled as much as possible while traveling abroad.
Cybersecure trip for business people
Business travelers are more vulnerable to a cyberattack due to the fact that they handle confidential information for companies, information that could be very valuable to cybercriminals. In their daily work inside or outside the office, they share sensitive organizational information. If the necessary measures are not taken, it could have serious financial consequences.
If you are an executive on a business trip, some measures to have a cybersecure trip are:
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Share your files from secure applications
If you need to share or send files from abroad, you should use an application with encryption system such as the HushApp. This will allow you to do send easily and safely from anywhere you are. -
Install and update the operating systems and your antivirus license
This is a measure that must be taken inside and outside the home. Make sure you have installed a protection system on your computer. In addition to keeping it and your operating system updated, this level of security applies to applications on your mobile as well.
Take your devices that do not store confidential information and only the necessary documents that you want and need to work with.
International regulations
In addition to implementing these security measures, be aware of laws and regulations involving cyber security in each country you plan to visit. Remember that when we travel we are subject to their legislation.
A suggestion to reinforce your security is to buy a data plan to use to in your destination country, even though it may be limited. This will allow you to check messages, confirm check-in times and keep up to date with other important issues
Whether you are a frequent traveler or not, for business or pleasure, do not let your guard down in terms of cybersecurity. Following these smple steps will allow you to enjoy your trip without compromising your personal or business information.