Security is always top of mind when traveling. If you are sightseeing, you are always aware of your surroundings, keep your documents safe, have a hand on your bag, or keep your wallet in your front pocket. That shouldn’t be any different for your data. We live in a digital age and need to keep our data just as safe as our physical possessions.
VPN
The best way to protect your data when traveling is a VPN, like Surfshark. It is a service that creates a private connection on public WiFi. This prevents anyone from checking in on you browsing, booking, or monitoring. It helps create a safe zone for all of your digital information. This also protects you as a user from apps knowing your exact location. For example, I love to stream while traveling on a train or a bus, and there are streaming services that you cannot use while in another country. I turn on my VPN, and it notes I’m using a US IP address, and I can continue to stream just like I would if I were in the states.
Update Operating Systems
One of the least thought of ways to keep your information safe is keeping your electronics updated. Phone and computer manufacturers ensure that they are building security into your software. It is crucial for you to keep your devices current with its updates. As devices are in public longer, they are more likely to be hacked. Companies know this and continuously update their software to ensure that your device cannot be hacked.
Be Wary of Free WiFi
We all know that the internet is an essential part of our daily lives. We use it to check in on our homes, check in with family and friends, and even find our way around a new place. When traveling to other countries, it is very common for there to be free WiFi EVERYWHERE, from cafes to gas stations, WiFi is a hot commodity, and people know that. But one of the most important things to be aware of is public WiFi is just that, public so anybody with the right skills can log on and see what you are doing on the WiFi. If you don’t have a VPN, I suggest buying a data plan from your internet provider to avoid unwanted visitors along your WiFi journey.
Check Bluetooth Settings
The little setting on your devices that lets you connect to watches, headphones, and even other devices can become a way for strangers to enter your device. The simplest way to prevent this is by turning it off when you are in public. I am guilty of overlooking this tip because I like to connect my devices. I always play it safe when traveling and bring a pair of corded headphones and only turn my Bluetooth on when I am in the comfort of my room.
Lock-up Devices
Most hotel rooms have a safe in them, and most of the time, I put my valuables in there to protect them from being stolen. But there is a more significant reason to put them in other than protecting them. It can protect your data from being stolen while you aren’t even around. Locking your documents and devices in a safe while you are away from them keeps everything secure.
Now that you are armed with how to keep yourself and your data safe, you are ready for your next trip. We can work together to ensure you are prepared for your best and safest trip possible. Schedule a consultation to create your perfect itinerary, and we will make sure that your data is safe.