Did you know 20% of all travelers are subject to cyber-crime when abroad? Whether you’re exploring a new country or at a coffee shop, staying cyber-safe while traveling is essential. Having a prepared cybersecurity checklist is key to keeping your privacy safe on the go. Attackers may use phishing scams, device theft, or evil twin WiFi networks to trick unsuspecting travelers. Today, we’ll cover what kinds of attacks to look out for and tips you can use to protect yourself while traveling.
Types of Attacks Cybercriminals Use When You Travel
Every year millions of people are traveling, and cybercriminals are waiting to exploit vulnerabilities unique to these travelers. Some common types of attacks include:
Evil Twin WiFi: Hackers can create real-looking fake WiFi networks to steal information from unsuspecting victims. They may target public places like a coffee shop that provides free WiFi. Hackers may even use devices to make their WiFi appear closer so it’s the top of the network options and strongest connection you will see.
Phishing Scams: If a cybercriminal knows you may be traveling, they can send targeted phishing emails disguised as hotel bookings, flight changes, or urgent notices. Fake travel document websites have been becoming increasingly popular and one of the biggest ways people fall victim to these scams.
Malware via Charging Stations: Also known as juice jacking, attackers are able to load malware into a charging station with a USB cord. This is a form of a man-in-the-middle (MITM) attack.
Device Theft: 1 in 5 international travelers have lost their cell phone or had it stolen while abroad. Attackers will target travelers in busy public areas or areas with low lighting. Knowing the threats is important, but implementing the upcoming tips is what will protect you on the go.
Tips To Protect Yourself When Traveling
To safeguard yourself from these threats while you travel, follow these cybersecurity best practices:
Use a VPN: A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a must-have when traveling. It protects you from potential hackers or people using an evil twin WiFi network. If you know you’re going to be using WiFi in the airport, a hotel, or in public, a VPN is a great tool to have to safeguard your privacy.
Stay Alert to Phishing Scams: Travelers are especially susceptible to phishing scams. Clicking a random link from a hotel site or an airline is considerably more likely when the person is planning on traveling. At Kirkham IronTech, we have services to protect our clients from these types of scams. With our 24/7 monitoring and email management/support we ensure our clients are the least likely to fall for a phishing scam.
Avoid Public Charging Stations: Public charging stations can potentially be a target for attackers to upload malware into them. Bringing your own charger or even a portable battery bank is a safer alternative when needing to charge on the go.
Set Up Device Tracking and Remote Wiping: Especially when traveling, having tracking enabled on all devices is a must. Apple AirTags are a good tool to use when needing to track devices, if the device dies you are still able to track the AirTag. Remote wiping is also an option but should be used as a last resort. In the event of your device being stolen, you can remotely wipe all data from your device. Before doing so, make sure you have proper backups of all data before wiping.
Staying Alert While Traveling
Cybersecurity practices should always be followed, especially when traveling. It’s easy to get distracted and not realize when you are being targeted in an attack. By understanding the types of threats, you may encounter and implementing these tips, you can significantly reduce the chances of falling victim to cybercriminals.
Even with the best preparation, you still may fall victim to an attack. Partnering with a top 250 MSSP such as Kirkham IronTech can help ensure you will have the smallest possible chance of falling victim to any threat. Some services we use to help our clients stay safe are 24/7 monitoring, data backups, network & cloud security, and more.
See How We Can Help You Prepare for Your Next Trip, Get in Touch Today!
Call Us: (479) 434-1400 – Get in contact with our team.
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Email Us: info@kirkhamirontech.com – Let us know how we can help you and your business.
Tom Kirkham brings more than three decades of software design, network administration, and cybersecurity knowledge to organizations around the country. During his career, Tom has received multiple software design awards and founded other acclaimed technology businesses.
