If you are like most Americans, you’re probably on the go alot, and right next to you will be, as usual, a smartphone, a tablet, and/or a laptop – devices that contain a large quantity of personal information and present a high risk level in terms of confidentiality, if not protected properly while travelling.
Here are a few recommendations that will help you protect your information:
1. Use safe Wi-Fi connection and “https”
If you connect to a wireless connection, whether it’s a café or a hotel lobby, it should be password protected, in order to prevent unauthorized access. In a previous article we showed you how to identify and avoid rogue wifi hotspots.
If you plan to log into online accounts and enter personal information such as credit card numbers, make sure the site’s URL starts with “https” – this indicates that the data you send via the website is encrypted during transmission.
2. Consider installing tracking applications or “Find Me”
You can protect digital devices by using anti-theft apps, which allow you to detect and possibly to recover your computer, tablet or smartphone if stolen. Some of these programs photograph the offender, locate the stolen gadget or allow you to remotely wipe the device so that your data is not stolen and used for malicious purposes.
3. Make sure that you log out from public computers
When you check your e-mail at an Apple Store or Internet cafe while you’re on vacation, make sure you log out the online accounts each time. When you simply close the browser it is not enough – on some accounts you may remain logged in and the next person trying to access their email or social network account on the computer, might have access to your account.
4. Monitor your financial accounts daily
Checking your financial accounts daily can help detect fraud or any other suspicious activities. However, make sure to check these accounts by using a safe Internet connection. Many credit card companies have fraud protection features, but there are also other services that monitor these items and alert you of suspicious activity such as LifeLock, and Identity Guard.
5. Protect your devices with passwords
Your devices are far more vulnerable when on the road or when visiting a foreign location. Use password protection programs or encrypt personal files to make sure data is secure.