Traveling is an incredible way to explore the world, meet new people, and gather unique experiences. But as much as it’s about fun and adventure, it’s equally important to consider digital security tips when you’re on the go, especially if you’re considering how to travel and work on your business at the same time. From safeguarding personal information to understanding if your phone is being tracked, below, we’ll take a look at what you can do to improve your digital security on the go.
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Our 9 Essential Digital Security Tips
Tip #1 – Protect Your Devices
Travel often involves carrying multiple digital devices like smartphones, laptops, or tablets. We’ll start with the low-hanging fruit of digital security tips by saying it’s vital to protect these devices both physically and digitally. Ensure your devices are password-protected and equipped with the latest security updates. If possible, enable device tracking or find-my-device options, and always keep your devices with you or safely secured.
Tip #2 – Be Wary Of Public WI-FI
Public Wi-Fi networks at airports, hotels, and cafes can be hotbeds for digital theft. Although this may seem like a no-brainer of digital security tips, it’s essential that you avoid performing sensitive activities such as banking, entering passwords, or accessing personal data when connected to public Wi-Fi. If you must, consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN), which can secure your connection by encrypting your data.
Tip #3 – Use A VPN
A VPN can mask your internet activity, making it harder for cybercriminals to access your personal information. It can also help you access content that might be restricted in the country you’re visiting. However, ensure you use a reliable and trustworthy VPN service, as some may collect and sell your data.
Tip #4 –Protect Your Personal Information
Avoid oversharing information online. Posting every detail of your trip in real-time can be tempting, but this can inform potential thieves that your home is unoccupied, thus we’re including it in this list of digital security tips. Ideally, share your experiences after you return from your trip, and ensure your social media accounts are private or accessible only to trusted individuals.
Tip #5 – Know If Your Phone Is Being Tracked
Knowing if your device is being tracked can be tricky, but certain signs might indicate such activity. How to know if your phone is being tracked? Common signs include rapid battery drain, increased data usage, or your phone behaving unusually, such as unexpected restarts or slow performance.
If you suspect your phone is being tracked, one of the most basic digital security tips is to start by checking for unknown apps. ome tracking apps may be disguised and appear as regular apps and can be added by hackers when you are using un-secure Wi-Fi on your travels. Delete any app you don’t recognize or didn’t install.
You can also check your device’s location services. If your location is being shared with an unknown service, your phone may be tracked. Always ensure your location settings share data only with apps you trust.
Tip #6 – Secure Your Online Accounts
Ensure your online accounts have unique, strong passwords, and where possible, enable two-factor authentication. This provides an additional layer of security as even if your password is compromised, the hacker would need a second verification code to access your account so they will not simply be able to piggyback on the hotel’s Wi-Fi to get into your accounts when you do not want them to.
Tip #7 – Beware Of Phishing Scams
Of the many digital security tips you can follow, being wary of unsolicited calls, texts, or emails asking for personal information or passwords is a great catch-all strategy. These may seem legitimate, especially if you are not familiar with the customs, rules and regulations of a location you are traveling to, but are often phishing scams aimed at stealing your information. Always verify the source before giving out any information.
Tip #8 – Keep Your Devices Clean
Regularly clean your devices of unnecessary apps and files. This not only helps improve device performance but also reduces the risk of having dormant or forgotten apps that might pose a security risk when you are using new sources of Wi-Fi on your travels.
Tip #9 – Carry On Your Devices
One other thing it is a good idea to do is to pack your devices in your carry-on luggage, rather than your main suitcase, if possible. This is because thieves will often cut open suitcases to get to valuable goods like phones, laptops and tablets, and if they succeed, and they are able to crack into your devices, they may ber able to access your personal information and steal your banking p[asswords, or worse, so if you can have them near to you, it will be much safer. That’s why you should leave them in the hotel safe when you are not using them, if sat all p[ossible, too.
Traveling should be a thrilling and carefree experience. By incorporating these digital security measures into your travel routine, you can explore with peace of mind, knowing your digital life is well-protected. Stay safe and enjoy your journeys!
