How To Maintain Your Digital Freedom While Abroad
As you explore new places and experience different cultures, hidden dangers like hackers and unsafe internet connections can put your personal information at risk. Imagine sitting at a cozy café abroad, not realizing that using the wrong WiFi could expose your private data.
Apr 22, 20254.7K Shares63.9K Views
When travelling abroad, we spend so much time worrying about our itinerary and accommodation that we often forget about our digital security. Unfortunately, even connecting to the wrong network can lead to having your data stolen. If you want to maintain your digital freedom while travelling abroad, you should read this short guide.
Understanding Digital Risks While Travelling
The most important thing is for you to understand the various digital risks you might encounter while travelling abroad. These cyber threats include phishing attacks, data breaches, and unsecured public WiFi networks.
You may also want to be aware of any recent cyberattacks in the country you’re visiting. These attacks can disrupt common services, for instance, the recent cyber attack on Italyaffected public services, transportation systems and more, across Italy, including Rome and Palermo.
Securing Your Devices And Connections
Your data can be stolen, without you noticing anything has occurred, especially while you’re travelling. That’s why you must ensure your devices and connections are always kept secure.
2-Factor Authentication
2-Factor Authentication (or 2FA) is a security measure that uses your phone number, email, or another device to receive or generate a code used to ensure access from authorised users only.
Strong Passwords & Password Managers
A strong password is essential to protecting your account, and while the strongest typically include numbers, symbols, and upper and lower-case letters, remembering them can be a challenge. Password managers offer a safe, secure place to store your login details, so you don’t have to worry about remembering them.
Updated Software
Software can have a range of security issues and backdoors which hackers can take advantage of. Software updates are designed to close these issues and provide greater security for your devices, but they only work if you keep your device’s software updated.
VPNs
If you need to enter sensitive information while travelling, you should use VPN services. Unsecured, public networks are vulnerable to attack, and your data can easily be stolen. A VPN encrypts all the traffic, and a dedicated server somewhere in the world decrypts it, letting you browse completely protected.
Staying Informed And Prepared
The final thing you can do to maintain your digital freedom is stay informed on the latest government updates. You could sign up for alerts from your chosen destination, as this will keep you aware of any developments. Alternatively, the UK Foreign Office can provide comprehensive travel advice for a range of destinations.
Latest Articles
Popular Articles