One area of vulnerability while traveling comes by connecting to Bluetooth, for example, when renting a car. When your Bluetooth is active, hackers can see the networks youu2019ve connected to previously, mimic them and then fool your device into connecting to their Bluetooth devices. Once they are connected, they can put malware onto your device, then steal data or spy on you.
For this reason, be cautious when you connect your Bluetooth. Be sure to wipe your history before returning a rental car — and donu2019t keep your Bluetooth on all the time.
Shutterstock | ValentinT“Image Credits:Shutterstock (opens in a new window)Right now, the leading American cell providers share a signaling system that allows a phone to roam among different countries. To provide this service, international agreements state that cell providers have to supply details of subscribers (name, contact information, subscription plan and cell tower) at the request of another provider. Because of this agreement, people who have access to this signaling system can easily hack your phone.
A good way to protect your identity abroad (and avoid roaming charges too) is to use a disposable phone or use a local SIM card in your own phone. This forces anyone who could potentially be monitoring your information to go through an extra step and try to link your new number to your identity.
Image via Giphy“You never know what will happen when you travel. You are often out of your element and that can make you a target. If any of your devices get stolen, you need to be prepared.nnTo do this, set up software that can track, remotely lock and remotely wipe your devices. Apple, Google and Windows all offer some type of remote security for their devices, though it can be more difficult to remotely track, wipe or lock computers (other than Apple computers).nnImage via Giphy“One of the worst things that could happen while traveling would be to compromise your bank account.u00a0To help protect your bank accounts, avoid bringing your valuable credit and debit cards and use a prepaid card to access your money while youu2019re on the road. This serves a dual purpose of keeping your accounts safe and eliminating the problem of needing to carry around a pouch full of cash.
More important than protecting your bank cards is ensuring your bank accounts stay safe. To do this, keep your bank apps secure by installing latest updates. You should also avoid shared networks; however, if you absolutely must use a public computer to access your account, make sure to clear browsing history and cookies before you leave and donu2019t click on any links that pop up, as they may contain malware.”Using a virtual private network (VPN) is an option that many consumers may not be aware of that will keep you safe over Wi-Fi. A VPN allows users to create a secure connection over a public network, adding a layer of security. In addition to the security and privacy aspects a VPN provides, you can also search the Internet without worrying who is seeing or tracking your movement online.
So next time youu2019re gearing up for your next trip abroad, you might want to consider adopting these travel-safe tools and precautions.
Shutterstock |Volkova Vera“Image Credits:Shutterstock (opens in a new window)
Every few weeks it seems there is another major security breach that makes its way to front-page news. In the wake of these increasing security breaches, more consumers have been looking for ways to protect their online privacy and security.
One area that specifically presents a whole host of security concerns (both physical and digital) is travel. You aren’t just a prime target to get your wallet stolen, but you’re also at risk to have your online identity compromised. Fortunately, there are myriad methods to keep you safe and secure while traveling.
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