How to Keep Your Devices Safe from Hackers While Traveling
Posted: April 9 2024 | Tagged: Travel Hacks
Photo by Mike Swigunski
Cybercrime is probably the last thing you think about when traveling off the beaten path, right? You’re probably more than aware of petty theft and how easily phones, computers, and other devices can be stolen while traveling. But if you have your devices with you, then how can hackers even get to them? Well, whether you’re on your computer a lot during travel, such as working away throughout the day, or even just traveling from place to place with little to no use of your devices, you’re still technically at risk of having to deal with hackers!
Well, cyber crimes (just like at home) can occur in various ways, from identity theft to data breaches; hackers are adept at exploiting vulnerabilities in our devices. So, how can you play it safe? Well, here’s what you need to know!
Well, cyber crimes (just like at home) can occur in various ways, from identity theft to data breaches; hackers are adept at exploiting vulnerabilities in our devices. So, how can you play it safe? Well, here’s what you need to know!
Update Your Software and Apps
It’s up to you when you do this, but ideally, it’s a good idea before setting off on your adventure to ensure that all your devices, including smartphones, laptops, and tablets, are up to date with the latest software updates and security patches. Sure, sometimes updates happen in the midst of a trip, and that’s fine, too. But basically, update these as soon as you possibly can!
You can usually count on these updates to include fixes for known vulnerabilities, strengthening your device's defences against potential threats. This is simple, free, and fast, and seriously, it’s the best way to prevent any hacking on any of your devices (seriously, it’s that simple).
You can usually count on these updates to include fixes for known vulnerabilities, strengthening your device's defences against potential threats. This is simple, free, and fast, and seriously, it’s the best way to prevent any hacking on any of your devices (seriously, it’s that simple).
Avoid Public Wi-Fi if You Can
So what does this mean by “public Wi-Fi”? Well, these are found in hotels, airports, and cafes. Basically, all of these are prime targets for hackers looking to intercept sensitive information. Yes, even in established businesses, you can still expect hackers to have an eye on extracting data from these networks!
This is why it’s best to avoid connecting to unsecured networks. If you absolutely need to (because sometimes there is no choice), then it’s best to look into a reliable VPN to encrypt your internet traffic and protect your data from prying eyes.
This isn’t just about protecting your computer, but avoiding public WIFI networks on your phone is the best way to know how to secure my phone from hackers. While this might sound overly simple, it is all you really need to do. Don’t trust public Wi-Fi; don’t trust it whether it’s free or paid for, and you’re still going to be putting yourself at risk. This is why you’re better off getting a data package with your phone company before traveling. Sure. it’s a bit expensive, but you’re basically protecting yourself from hackers and being a victim of a cybercrime.
This is why it’s best to avoid connecting to unsecured networks. If you absolutely need to (because sometimes there is no choice), then it’s best to look into a reliable VPN to encrypt your internet traffic and protect your data from prying eyes.
This isn’t just about protecting your computer, but avoiding public WIFI networks on your phone is the best way to know how to secure my phone from hackers. While this might sound overly simple, it is all you really need to do. Don’t trust public Wi-Fi; don’t trust it whether it’s free or paid for, and you’re still going to be putting yourself at risk. This is why you’re better off getting a data package with your phone company before traveling. Sure. it’s a bit expensive, but you’re basically protecting yourself from hackers and being a victim of a cybercrime.
Disable Automatic Connection
So this goes back to what was being said above just don’t connect to public Wifi, but the thing is, sometimes, you just don’t know that you are! So that’s why you need to disable automatic Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections on your devices, as this can help you prevent them from connecting to unknown or untrusted networks without your knowledge. There might be a chance that your phone connects to it without you even knowing! So be sure to manually select and verify network connections before accessing the internet or sharing sensitive information.
Secure Your Devices Physically
Alright, so this one is a given, but so what? It still deserves some attention! You need to keep your devices physically secure at all times, especially in crowded or high-risk environments- these areas are perfect for petty theft. Ideally, you’ll want to invest in sturdy locks or anti-theft accessories for laptops and tablets and avoid leaving your devices unattended in public spaces (something you should have already known about). Also, don’t have your phone in your back pocket!
Monitor Your Accounts
You’ll want to keep a close eye on your financial and online accounts while traveling, meaning that you’ll want to check for any unauthorized activity or suspicious transactions. These are super common when traveling, so the sooner you fix them, the better. So, you absolutely need to report any anomalies to your financial institutions and take immediate steps to secure your accounts.
Use Device Tracking and Remote Wiping
Sometimes, the worst-case scenario happens: your stuff gets stolen. But not all hope is lost! Prior to any trip, make sure to enable tracking features like 'Find My iPhone' or Android's 'Find My Device. These features can locate, lock, or remotely wiping your device if it's lost or stolen. These tools provide peace of mind and a chance to safeguard your data even if your device is out of reach.