Cybersecurity and International Travel
Living or traveling internationally
can leave gaps in your digital safety. Vulnerabilities can come from free Wi-Fi
networks and technologies like Bluetooth. Hackers are waiting for tourist to
show up unprotected, whether it is your cell phone, computer or another device
with your personal information. Hackers are clever at getting your information
and using it to drain bank accounts and other criminal activities. Like all
criminals, they are looking for easy targets. Here are a few simple ideas that
can move you up the chain from being an easy target, since many criminals would
rather move on to an easier prey.
Criminals are getting your
information by either stealing your device or by capturing your information digitally
through cyber means. Either way you can make it harder for the criminal to
access your information by using passwords and making sure your key accounts
have two ways of authentication. Use a good anti-virus system and VPN software
which encrypts information. Don’t open
links you don’t know. Hackers troll with these links in order to get your
attention---so don’t be tempted to click on new unknown links! Consider
purchasing your own hot spot. Turn off your Bluetooth. Back up your data. Change
your password often and set up notifications, so if someone logs on to an
account from a new device or location you will be notified. While away don’t use networks without an
authentication or password. Criminals set up free Wi-Fi connections in high-end
tourist areas to troll for data. Once you log on to their free Wi-Fi, they can access
your information on your device and take your pictures, your money or even your
identity. They can also use your contacts, hijack your social accounts and
possibly lock you out of your information for life.
Keeping
your data safe and secure while you travel, will save you from a lot of
headaches and stress, if your devices are stolen or hacked. Don’t be an easy
target. Criminals are working every day and making big money from easy targets,
don’t be one of them.
Carrie Pasquarello of
Global Secure Resources Inc. an International
Corporation dedicated to risk mitigation and threat assessment planning. She
has spent more than a decade in a Diplomatic capacity working and living abroad
in Europe and Asia. Served with the US Department of State. Trained victim
advocate in trauma, recovery and crisis counseling.
Contact:
Global Secure Resources
Inc.
1-800-939-0562
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