Protecting Your Sensitive Data During the Holiday Rush

The holidays can be stressful, but it is often the most frequent time for travel to see families, friends, and those we love. But amidst the excitement of exploring new destinations, there’s a lurking danger that many overlook: cybersecurity threats. Cyberattacks targeting travelers are on the rise, so protect yourself by avoiding public Wi-Fi networks, updating your software systems, and focusing on security features such as MFA. Take the tech stress off this holiday season with these tips. Let's dig in. 

Features in this (jolly) article:

1. 3 Cybersecurity Risks to Be Aware of While Traveling
2. 3 Security Actions You Need to Do Before Leaving for the Holidays
3. Cyber Tips for While You're Traveling This Holiday Season

3 cybersecurity risks while traveling

Public Wi-Fi Networks

Public Wi-Fi networks, often found in airports, hotels, and cafes, are a significant risk for travelers. These networks are usually unsecured, making it easy for cybercriminals to intercept your data.

• To Protect Yourself: Whether you’re checking your email or making an online purchase, using public Wi-Fi can expose sensitive information like passwords and credit card numbers.
  
  

Physical Device Security

Losing your laptop, smartphone, or tablet can result in unauthorized access to personal and professional data. Imagine the consequences of losing sensitive business documents or personal photos to a stranger.

• To Protect Yourself: Keep your devices close to you at all times, especially in crowded places like airports and public transportation. Consider using a lock for your laptop and never leave your devices unattended, even for a short period.
  
  

Social Engineering Attacks

Social engineering attacks, such as phishing scams, increasingly target travelers during the holidays. For example, you might receive a fake email claiming to be from your hotel or airline, asking you to confirm your booking details. These emails often contain malicious links or attachments designed to steal your information.

• To Protect Yourself: Always verify the sender’s email address before clicking on any links or downloading attachments. If something seems off, contact the organization directly to confirm the legitimacy of the request.
  
  

3 Things to do before you Leave for the holidays

1. Enable Security Features
   Enable security features like two-factor authentication (2FA) and remote wipe. 2FA adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, such as a text message or authentication app, to access your accounts.
   
   
2. Update Software and Systems
   Before you hit the road, make sure all your devices are up-to-date. This includes your operating system, antivirus software, and any apps you regularly use. Software updates often include security patches that protect against known vulnerabilities.
   
   
3. Backup Your Data
   Backing up your data is essential, especially when traveling. In case your device is lost or stolen, having a backup ensures you don’t lose important files and information. Use cloud storage services or external hard drives to create copies of your data.

cyber tips for traveling during the holidays

Be Wary of Charging Stations

Public charging stations may seem harmless but can be used to steal data or install malware. Use your own charger or a data blocker to stay safe.

• Public USB charging stations can be modified to install malware or steal data.
• Cybercriminals use a technique called juice jacking to exploit public charging stations.
• Users should use their own chargers plugged directly into electrical outlets.
• USB data blockers allow devices to charge while blocking data transfer.
  
  

Use a VPN

Using a VPN is one of the most effective ways to protect your data while traveling. It encrypts your connection and shields your activity from cybercriminals, especially on public networks.

• A VPN encrypts your internet connection.
• A VPN creates a secure tunnel between your device and the internet.
• Users should activate their VPN whenever connected to unsecured networks.
  
  

Avoid Public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi is convenient but risky. Using mobile data or a personal hotspot is a safer alternative that reduces exposure to cyber threats.

• Users should rely on mobile data or personal hotspots instead.
• Many mobile carriers offer affordable international data plans.
• Mobile data is generally more secure than public Wi-Fi.
• If public Wi-Fi must be used, activities should be limited to non-sensitive tasks.
• A VPN adds protection when using public Wi-Fi.
  
  

Disable Auto-Connect

Auto-connect features can expose your device to unsafe networks. Turning off this setting gives you more control and improves security.

• Manually connecting to Wi-Fi networks gives users greater control over their connections.
• Disabling auto-connect enhances device security.

enjoy your trip, from centre technologies

Traveling should be an exciting experience, not a cybersecurity minefield! By understanding the risks and implementing these cybersecurity tips, you can protect your data and enjoy your adventures with peace of mind.

Want to learn more about keeping your data—especially your business data—safe? Reach out to our cybersecurity experts at Centre today and see which IT services would work best for you. If nothing else, we'd love to hear about your holidays. Chat with us today!