Online Security Risks You Face While Travelling and How to Protect Yourself

*This is a sponsored guest post, not written by me*

In today's digital age, we've become accustomed to timely access to information anywhere, anytime, even when we're travelling abroad. Devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops facilitate remote access to business information on the move. It may be convenient, but accessing sensitive information on the road, especially while travelling abroad, increases vulnerability to cyberattacks and data breaches. 

 

In this article, we'll shed some light on the dangers that you — and the information you bring with you or access via portable electronic devices — face while travelling. We'll also look at some of the measures you can take to reduce this risk of a breach. Let's start with the most common online security risks that travellers face. 

 

Public Wi-Fi Networks  

 

Free Wi-Fi hotspots and other public internet access points present one of the greatest cybersecurity threats for travellers. These access points are common in public locations such as airports, hotels, coffee shops, etc. Public Wi-Fi networks are often unsecured, which means hackers can intercept and steal your data. 

 

Theft

 

Theft is one of the most common data security risks that we face while travelling. The smartphone, tablet, or laptop you are travelling with is a potential target for physical and data theft. To an attacker, mobile devices offer a centralized source of more information about you and the organization you represent. 

 

Juice Jacking

 

Fake USB charging stations are equipped with ports that double as data connection, allowing hackers to download information from your device when you plug in. This travel scam is known as 'juice jacking', and it's used to target desperate travellers whose devices are running out of charge.  

 

How to Secure Your Data While Travelling

Now that you are aware of the most common data security risks you face while travelling, let's shift our focus to some of the steps you can take to protect your data on the move.

 

Use a VPN

 

You'll encounter numerous internet access points in the form of Wi-Fi hotspots while travelling, most of which are free to use. The only way to connect to these networks securely is via a travel VPN. A VPN (Virtual Private Network) encrypts your data and routes your traffic through a secure tunnel, providing a secure connection over a public network. This is the best VPN in Canada, but a quick Google search will help you find the best VPN in your home country.

 

Don't Leave Your Device Unattended

 

Cybercriminals are often on the lookout for unattended devices. In some cases, thieves will even break into unsecured hotel rooms looking for devices that may contain sensitive information. Always keep your mobile devices close to you when staying at a hotel or attending a conference. 

 

Bring a Power Bank While Traveling

 

Bring your own power bank while traveling to avoid falling victim to juice jacking. If you must use a public USB charging station, be sure to verify the power source before you plug in your device. Security experts also recommend bringing your own USB cable. 

 

The information you travel with or have access to when travelling could be compromised by threat actors and used against you or your organization. Malicious actors use various tactics to target travellers. Implement these security tips to mitigate the risk of a cybersecurity breach while on the move.