When travelling, how often do you consider your cyber safety? A search reveals many articles about travel safety tips, but they neglect digital safety. There are many ways we can fall victim to cybercrime. We can connect to an unknown open WiFi source, or leave NFC enabled on our devices. Our passports or credit cards can be accessed by RFID (radio-frequency identification), and our Instagram posts can make us an easy target for home robberies. Today, we’re sharing some cyber safety travel tips that will help you enjoy your business trip or vacation without the fear of being a cybercrime victim!
1. Be Aware of Internet Access
Public Wi-Fi networks can be convenient, but they are often unsecured. When travelling, consider using a local SIM card or eSIM, which provides a more secure internet connection than open Wi-Fi networks. Many countries offer tourist data plans that are easy to set up before or upon arrival.
If you must use Wi-Fi, stick to reputable providers such as hotels or trusted cafés. Avoid connecting to unknown or unsecured networks whenever possible. For added protection, use a VPN (Virtual Private Network), which encrypts your internet traffic and helps protect your data on public networks. Some VPNs include TunnelBear, Hotspot Shield, and Private Internet Access. Be aware that VPN use may be restricted or regulated in some countries, so check local laws before travelling.
2. Be Cautious When Using Credit Cards and Your Passport Abroad
Tap-to-pay technology and RFID-enabled passports make travel easier, but they can also introduce risk. RFID skimming can allow unauthorized access to card or passport data in crowded areas. To reduce this risk, consider using an RFID-blocking wallet or passport holder, which prevents unauthorized scanning. While banks often reimburse fraudulent charges, prevention can save time and stress while travelling.
3. Use Social Media with Caution
Sharing travel photos in real time can unintentionally signal that you’re away from home. Public posts and geolocation tags can make both your residence — and you — a target for theft. Consider posting photos after you return or disabling location tagging while travelling. You’ll still be able to share your experiences without broadcasting your whereabouts in real time.
4. Keep Devices Updated
Before you travel, make sure all devices are running the latest software and security updates. Updates often include critical patches for known vulnerabilities. Turn off unnecessary file-sharing and location services, and back up important data to the cloud or an external device before and during your trip.
5. Turn Off Wi-Fi When Not in Use
When Wi-Fi isn’t needed, disable it on your phone, tablet, or laptop. The same applies to Bluetooth and mobile hotspots. This reduces the chance of your device automatically connecting to an unsafe network.
6. Track and Protect Your Devices
Enable tracking features on your phone, tablet, and laptop whenever possible. In the event a device is lost or stolen, tracking tools may help you locate it. Remote-wipe capabilities are also essential. If a device falls into the wrong hands, you can erase personal data to prevent unauthorized access.
7. Disable Auto-Connect Settings
Many devices automatically connect to nearby Wi-Fi networks. While convenient at home, this feature can be risky while travelling. Before you leave, adjust your settings so Wi-Fi connections must be approved manually. This simple step can significantly reduce your exposure to insecure networks.
8. Watch Your Cards and Transactions While Away
Never let your bank or travel card out of sight, and regularly monitor transactions while travelling and after returning home. Digital wallets such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay offer added security by using tokenization rather than your actual card number. Banking apps also allow you to freeze cards instantly if suspicious activity appears.
Most smartphones, laptops, and tablets come equipped with security settings that will enable you to lock the device using a PIN number or fingerprint ID. Do this on every available device. While travelling, change the PIN numbers you regularly use. In the event that any of your devices have been momentarily misplaced or forgotten, this will be the first line of defence against a security breach.
9. Lock Devices Down
Protect all devices with strong PINs, passwords, or biometric authentication. Where possible, enable device encryption. For added security, consider changing commonly used PINs before travelling. Your lock screen is your first line of defence if a device is misplaced or stolen.
10. Use Bluetooth Carefully (and Sparingly)
Be cautious when pairing devices with Bluetooth-enabled cars, especially rentals. Personal data such as contacts and call history may be stored in the vehicle’s system. If you pair your device with a rental car, be sure to delete your information and remove your device from the paired list before returning the vehicle.
Burner Phones for Travel
A burner phone isn’t necessary for most travellers, but it can be helpful in higher-risk situations. A burner phone is a secondary device with minimal personal data, used only for essential communication and apps. If lost or stolen, your main personal and financial information remains protected.
Consider one if you are:
- Travelling for business or handling sensitive work information
- Visiting higher-risk destinations
- Concerned about device loss, theft, or data exposure
Tip: Use it with a local SIM or eSIM, enable biometrics and remote wipe, and reset it after your trip.
Additional Cyber Safety Travel Tips
While many of us are excited to start planning our next getaway after a long hiatus, be sure to check out the Government of Canada website for the latest travel advisories. Below, you’ll find cyber safety travel tips to help you prepare for (and stay safe during) your travels:
Cyber Safety Travel Tips: Before You Go
- Update all operating systems and apps
- Enable multi-factor authentication on key accounts
- Back up data to secure cloud storage or an external drive
- Enable remote lock and wipe features on devices
Cyber Safety Travel Tips: While Travelling
- Be mindful of people viewing your screen or keyboard
- Use wall outlets or personal power banks to charge devices
- Avoid public USB charging stations and unknown devices
- Never connect unfamiliar USB devices to your laptop or phone
Final Thoughts on Cyber Safety Travel Tips
The best cyber safety travel tip is to be cautious. Much like keeping an eye on your surroundings, do what you can to protect your digital security, as well. While these scenarios may not be as common, they do still occur. Practice safe digital security as much as you would physical security. If you are looking for the best insurance coverage for your next trip, isure has you covered! You’ve asked about coverage, cost, and what happens in an emergency – and we will always provide an answer.
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