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.
Author:Callum FraserApr 22, 202516.9K Shares226.5K 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 traveladvice for a range of destinations.
Callum Fraser
Author
Callum Fraser isn't just a writer about Scotland; he's a product of its rugged landscape and rich history. Born and raised in Perthshire, with the Highlands as his backyard, his love for the nation's stories was kindled by local storytellers and long walks through ancient glens.
This passion led him to pursue a degree in Scottish History from the University of Edinburgh. For over 15 years, Callum has dedicated himself to exploring and documenting his homeland, fusing his academic knowledge with essential, on-the-ground experience gained from charting road trips through the Cairngorms, hiking the misty Cuillins of Skye, and uncovering the secrets of traditional recipes in his family's kitchen.
As the Editor-in-Chief and Lead Author for Scotland's Enchanting Kingdom, Callum's mission is simple: to be your most trusted guide. He combines meticulous research with a storyteller's heart to help you discover the authentic magic of Scotland — from its best-kept travel secrets to its most cherished traditional recipes.
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