A category of technology users who are significantly exposed to the dangers of malicious campaigns are travelers. As long as they move from one place to another without using secure and private connections, the protection of their personal data and online accounts is threatened. As the travel season increases, the ESET gathered basic instructions for travelers to protect their personal information, accounts and devices.
1. Restrict third-party access to your devices. Always use
complex PINs and passwords for all your electronic devices. If possible, install a security solution that allows you to remotely manage your device and, in the event of theft or loss, lock or disable it remotely. Also try to encrypt storage drives such as external or hard drives and use USB Shield, especially if you have lent the drive to other people. Caution is also needed in USB charging stations, which can usually be found at airports and other public places.
2. Protect your data. Η connection on public networks poses risks, so it is initially recommended to use a VPN service, which can increase the level of security when transportof data, even if there are unreliable connections. After logging out, delete the networks you were connected to. Don't forget to update your operating systems and apps and remember to turn it off Bluetooth and the WiFi of your devices if you are not using them. End, be careful when creating staff WiFi Hotspot with your mobile phone, use secure passwords and turn it off when you are no longer using it.
3. Enhance the authentication of your online accounts. Enabling 2FA certification can prevent potential intruders from compromising your account, so make sure you always use this feature. Check regularly for unusual movements in your bank and social media accounts and be on the lookout for security alerts. Do not hesitate to change your login credentials if you suspect that your accounts have been compromised by creating strong and unique passwords with the help of a special tool, Password Manager.
4. Protect your privacy, both before and during your trip. In many public networks Wi-Fi personal data is requested to allow the connection, e.g. one Email or even create a special account. The general rule is not to share your real data and to keep a separate account with an email address specifically for these situations. Also check the privacy policy regarding data usage. Be careful with the information you post on social media as it can be used for malicious purposes. When cybercriminals know where you are at all times, they can use the information to contact your family usingtreatment or break into your home while it is empty. Posting photos of airline tickets, where all the information and barcodes are visible, is also a very dangerous practice.
5. Protect your online shopping. Prefer ticket purchases and hotel reservations to be made with credit instead of a debit card, because if your credit card is stolen, it's much easier to report the incident and rectify the situation than with a debit card, plus you don't risk finding yourself in the middle of your trip with an empty one Bank account. Be careful when withdrawing money from an ATM and make sure there are no easily detached parts on the card reader strips where you insert your bank card. If your card has a chip RFID, you can protect it with the special cover that blocks the signal.
6. Beware of scams especially for travelers. Travelers are common targets for scams with enticing travel offers sent in emails or displayed on social media feeds. To verify that these are indeed offers, check that the link clicked leads to authentic website. If you need to send confidential information, make sure the connection is encrypted with HTTPS. Use other channels (phone or contact via verified social media profiles) to contact the operator, who allegedly prepared the offer, and verify that it is genuine. Finally, always use a strong security solution that can detect attempts to run malware on your computer.
