Look for the HTTPS extension at the beginning of the URL to make sure it’s protected. Similarly, if you must use a public computer for a quick email, always make sure you’re logged out of your account before leaving. Other countries may not have the same regulations on public Wi-Fi as the US, so sticking to a password-protected network, like the ones offered at most major hotels, is probably your option more secure if you need to access the Internet. This advice is important, especially if you are traveling abroad. Only use password-protected Wi-Fi networks Take a moment to avoid this threat by turning off Bluetooth while you’re on vacation. This can happen quickly and without your knowledge. With its open Bluetooth connectivity, anyone sitting in a hotel lobby or nearby coffee shop could pick up that signal and gain access to your device. But most of us forget to turn off Bluetooth connectivity when we go to public places, especially when we go on vacation. Disable automatic Bluetooth connectivityīluetooth is great in the car or at home, where it’s safe to communicate with other electronic devices.
If your laptop or phone is left unattended, lost, or stolen, a would-be criminal will have a harder time breaking into your device if a password lock is in place. Enable passcodes/PINs on mobile devices before you go outĮnabling common security features on your mobile devices could be your first line of defense while on vacation. If you’re not sure you’re on a real site, you can try Norton Safe Web, a free scanning tool that helps users identify malicious websites. The web address of the site must have “HTTPS” in the URL. When booking anything related to travel, make sure you go directly to the company’s official website to make your reservations. How to stay cyber safe while traveling abroad Book trips from secure websites He recently listed seven top concerns business travelers should have about data security while traveling in a commentary for the business publication CSO. He frequently speaks in the industry and teaches around the world. He has written eight books on computer security and has more than 40 computer certifications. Grimes is chief security architect at Microsoft. Use your phone’s tethering feature instead if you’re not sure you’re connecting to the correct open Wi-Fi network. Make sure you only connect to legitimate WIFI services and not hacker WIFI hotspots.
“Be careful when connecting to any free WIFI or Bluetooth. Roger Grimes, a data security specialist, advises always choosing the most secure network option available, whether you’re traveling in or out of the country. The problem with that, of course, is that you can end up giving hackers around the world access to your passwords and other private data. Most people just log onto a free network and continue their previous online browsing or email writing without even considering how secure the network is. Whether traveling in or out of the country, nearly all business travelers rely on WIFI to get work done.