Summer Travel Staying Safe Online While On The Go
posted
on Wednesday, June 3, 2015
in
Security & Fraud Information
The summer travel season is here, as the weather warms up and the school year ends. Mobile devices and apps can help travelers make the most of their vacations, saving them time and money. And today there seems to be a mobile app for everything – from booking travel and hotels, avoiding traffic on road trips, to locating the best restaurants and deals in the area. These conveniences make traveling a breeze; however, the more we travel and access the Internet on the go, the more cyber risks we potentially face.
No one is exempt from the threat of cyber crime, at home or on vacation, but you can follow these simple steps from the Cybersecurity While Traveling Tip Card to stay safe online when traveling.
- Do not auto connect. Disable remote connectivity and Bluetooth when you’re not using them. Some devices will automatically seek and connect to available wireless networks. Disable these features so that you only connect to wireless and Bluetooth networks when you want to. This helps to ensure that cyber criminals cannot locate your smart devices.
- Think before you connect. Before you connect to any public wireless hotspot – like on an airplane or in an airport, hotel, train/bus station or café – be sure to confirm the name of the network and exact login procedures with appropriate staff to ensure that the network is legitimate. Using your mobile network connection is generally more secure than using a public wireless network.
- Think before you click. Use caution when downloading or clicking on any unknown links. Delete emails that are suspicious or are from unknown sources. Review and understand the details of an application before installing.
- Guard your mobile device. To prevent theft and unauthorized access or loss of sensitive information, never leave your mobile devices–including any USB or external storage devices–unattended in a public place. Keep your devices secured in taxis, at airports, on airplanes, when you’re at the pool, and in your hotel room.
For more summer travel tips, check out our Cybersecurity While Traveling Tip Card on STCGuide.com and www.dhs.gov/stopthinkconnect.