WE all deserve a vacation – but taking a break from cybersecurity is a bad idea.
Cyber criminals operate year round, so make sure you don’t make iPhone, Facebook or WhatsApp blunders this summer.
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If you’ve got some trips planned, you’ll have to stay up to rummage through security.
“Because of the limitations of PCR testing, locating passengers and the strict wearing of masks, we have to get on a plane, dive into a swimming pool and order a cocktail right now,” cybersecurity firm Panda Security said.
“However, flight cancellations are not the only thing to consider when preparing for your next vacation.
“Travelers should not only worry about pickpockets on their next vacation, but also be on the lookout for their cybersecurity.”
The cybersecurity experts shared four tips for staying safe online this summer.
Public Wi-Fi
When you travel, you almost certainly use public Wi-Fi.
This could be in a restaurant, airport or other public place.
But be very careful – it is full of risks.
“Hackers have ways to monitor traffic coming in and out of public Wi-Fi networks,” Panda Security says.
“The traffic can be anything like personal passwords and social security numbers.
“So, if you plan on using public Wi-Fi, keep in mind that anything you share on your smartphone while connected to the network is something you inadvertently communicate with a third party.”
Also consider using a VPN app, which encrypts your activity so hackers can’t see what you’re doing.
Social media
Going on vacation is always a highlight of the year.
So you definitely want to show your vacation on social media.
Still, you have to do it safely.
“Sharing your location can indicate troublemakers that you’re not home,” explains Panda Security.
“Intrusions in the UK are on the rise and the more you share on social media, the more information you send out into the world for people to benefit from.”
Consider only uploading photos and videos once you get home.
Find my device
Losing your iPhone in the UK can be very annoying.
But if you lose it on vacation, things can get worse.
Fortunately, there is an Apple feature that can track down a lost iPhone even if it is turned off.
“Making sure you can find your device when things go sideways is essential,” Panda Security says.
“Turn on features like iOS ‘Find My’ to be able to track your device in the event of an incident or especially if you want to share your location with your friends and family.”
Public Access PCs
When we are not at home, we are sometimes dependent on public resources.
This could be a public PC – maybe one at the hotel you’re staying at, at a library, or at the airport.
Unfortunately, this always carries risks, so use these machines with caution.
“Travelers should think twice before entering sensitive information or connecting smart devices or USB sticks to a public PC,” Panda Security warned.
“Hackers have the power to log any information you enter and infect your connected device.”
The cyber experts added: “As we all return to travel, you should use these tips and tricks to be better prepared for your upcoming summer vacation.
“Update your apps and operating system to ensure your data is securely backed up to ensure all your images are safe in case something gets lost or broken while on vacation.”
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