Many of us take every opportunity to travel, whether to see something new or see old friends and loved ones. An extra day to the weekend may be just what gets us to take another trip. While you’re trying to relax and leave work behind, cybercriminals are hard at work. Therefore our cybersecurity tools and techniques need to be working even when we are trying to relax and not think about work or class. It’s essential to practice safe online behavior and take proactive measures with your devices before and during your domestic and international travels. Here are some tips to include in your travel plans.
Before You Go
- If You Connect It, Protect It
The best way to protect any of your devices against viruses and malware is to keep them updated. Updates provide patches to known security issues. If the device supports anti-virus software, install one to further protect the device. - Back up your information
Any information that holds value to you should be backed up. This includes financial info, photos, videos, and contacts. Having a backup insures you do not lose that data in the event that your device becomes compromised and you need to reset to factory settings. - Connect only with people you trust
Some social media platforms seem like a good way to stay connected with people because you can control what they see. It is best to keep your platform connections with people you know and trust. This can hinder cybercriminals from implementing social engineering techniques on you. - Keep up to date
Turn on automatic updates so that the latest version of all your software is maintained. - Double your login protection
Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) to ensure that you are the only one with access to your accounts.
During Your Trip
- Stop auto connecting
Disable any features on your devices that automatically looks for and connects you to wireless networks and bluetooth devices. Instant connections can possibly give malicious actors access to your device. - Stay protected while connect
Only connect to trusted networks. If you have to connect to a public wireless connection, ask the establishment’s staff to confirm the name of the network and the proper connecting procedures. Avoid sensitive activities when using unsecured networks. Avoid activities such as banking or anything requiring credentials or passwords. - Play hard to get with strangers
If you are unsure about an email sender, do not respond to it or click any links or attachments. If it looks like it may be legitimate find a secondary means to confirm with the sender. - Never click and tell
Disable location services that allow people to know where you are located. Limit the amount of personal information you post online. Cybercriminals utilize personal information, such as places you frequent, to target you with various social engineering tactics. Also, knowing where you are not located is another way malicious actors can target you. - Guard your mobile devices
Never leave your devices unattended in a public place. Lock your devices in a secure location when leaving them behind.