Practicing good cyber hygiene before, during, and after traveling will help secure your device(s) and allow everyone in the family to connect with confidence while away.
It’s a popular time of year for traveling. You’re likely taking along a smart device to: assist with directions, locate or identify points of interest, or capture special photos.
Before you travel
Update your device: Updating devices will help fix security flaws and keep you protected.
Back up your device: Back up information such as contacts, financial data, photos, videos, and other data in case a device is compromised during travel.
Lock your device: Lock your device when you are not using it. Set devices to lock after a certain period of time and use strong PIN’s or Passwords.
Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Add an extra layer of protection. This helps ensure that you are the only person with access. For more info of MFA visit https://www.cisa.gov/mfa.
During your travel
Guard your devices: Your sensitive information is valuable. Always keep your device close at hand and secure.
Securely recharge: Never plug your phone into a USB public charging station. Always connect using your own power adapter via a power outlet.
Delete data from your rental car: If you connect for navigation or music, be sure to remove your device so other individuals don’t have access.
Avoid public wifi: While convenient, this poses a security risk. Consider using personal hotspots if your plan allows.
Turn off auto connect: When enabled, devices will seek out and connect to available networks or Bluetooth devices. This could allow cyber criminals to access your device without you even knowing!
Limit what you share: Revealing too much information can put you and those you’re traveling with at risk. Criminals can gain such information, like knowing you are away from home.
Avoid the use of public computers: If you must, do not enter any usernames or passwords on the computer and do not connect or transfer data from a thumb-drive or USB.
When you return home
Shred your boarding pass and luggage tag: Boarding Passes and Luggage tags typically include your full name, date of birth, and passenger names. These may contain sensitive data, like passport numbers, phone numbers, emails, and other information you wouldn’t want to share publicly.
Scan for viruses and malware: It’s best to update your security software when you return home and scan your device to make sure it hasn’t been compromised.
Knowing and following these tips will help you and your family with cyber-safe travel.
For more information, please visit:
Cybersecurity Tips for International Travelers | Federal Communications Commission (fcc.gov)
CyberTrip Advisor: Vacation (staysafeonline.org)