Cybercrime Doesn’t Take Vacation: 10 Internet Safety Rules While Traveling

Whether it’s using GPS, taking photos, using an online translator, or posting the best photos on social media, these days almost everyone uses at least one mobile device with Internet access while on vacation.

This equipment is already an intended part of the holiday, but they are fraught with some dangers, mainly for the most absent-minded vacationers. If you usually connect to public Wi-Fi networks to save on mobile data, or have a habit of leaving your smartphone unattended (even if it’s only for a few seconds), be aware that inadvertently, may invite malicious third parties to view your personal information or financial data.

Protect your smartphone, tablet or laptop at all costs. Protect your data and your money

Many hackers or cybercriminals prefer tourists as they are more relaxed and often connected to unsecured Wi-Fi networks. Check out 10 tips to help you feel more secure during your well-deserved vacation.

1. Update the software

Treat your mobile devices like a home or work computer. By keeping your software and operating system up to date, you improve your device’s ability to protect itself from malware.

2. Back up your information

Back up contacts, photos, videos and other mobile device data to another device or cloud service.

3. Keep your device locked

Get into the habit of locking your device when you’re not using it with a PIN, strong passwords, or biometrics. So, even if you go away for a few minutes and someone tries to see, steal or destroy your information, you will have serious difficulties accessing the device.

4. Mobile devices are always under supervision

To prevent theft, unauthorized access, or loss of confidential information, never leave your mobile devices, including USB or external storage devices, unattended in public places. Keep your devices safe in taxis, airports, planes, and even in your hotel room.

5. Turn off Bluetooth

Bluetooth works by “pairing” devices. It is practical and widely used in the case of wireless headphones. However, this technology is not very secure. Always-on Bluetooth makes your devices more vulnerable, allowing hackers or cybercriminals to steal your data or personal data.

6. Avoid connecting to public Wi-Fi networks.

Whether in a hotel, bar, or airport, avoid accessing the internet through public Wi-Fi networks. In most cases, these connections are not secure and can hide hackers or cybercriminals who want to gain access to your devices and steal personal and financial information. Basically… see the next tip.

7. If you want to access home banking or shop online, use mobile data.

Do you need to complete a banking transaction or make an online purchase? Never, under any circumstances, use public Wi-Fi. Passwordless public networks usually do not use encryption to keep data secure, and any hacker or cybercriminal can intercept your information. In this situation, it is always preferable to use your mobile data.

8. Install a VPN

If you absolutely need to connect to a public Wi-Fi network, a VPN is one of the most useful tools you could ever need to keep your information safe. This technology encrypts your traffic so criminals using the same network cannot access your information or even detect your presence.

9. Stay away from public computers

Many hotels, hotel business centers, libraries or cafes have computers that everyone can use. These devices may not have up-to-date operating systems or anti-virus systems and may be infected with malware. And it never hurts to remember tip 7.

10. Beware of the Curious

Whether you’re using your payment card or watching social media while waiting for your plane, food, or just spending time lounging on a terrace or other public place, protect your information and be careful of the person sitting next to you. towards you or behind you. You never know if a criminal is prowling to get your personal details or banking information… Surfing over your shoulder (or “look over your shoulder”) is one of the oldest practices supporting cybercrime.

And very importantly, cybercriminals use many weapons and many means of contact. Threats can come through email, SMS, another type of written message, or a phone call. They do everything to look like a legitimate contact from a trusted bank or company. They even use computer programs to make sure you see the number of a legitimate company when you answer a call. They are always innovating and you should be aware.

Be suspicious whenever you are approached with alarm messages and requests for urgent action. First of all, NEVER share your sensitive data, such as credit card information, access data, or security or authorization codes that you receive via SMS, with third parties.even if they claim to be from a bank. Neither WiZink nor your bank will request this information via email, any type of written communication, or telephone..

Your confidential data belongs only to you and is solely for your use, in online transactions initiated by you voluntarilyon safe and secure sites. Regularly monitor the movements of your card and account. If you suspect that you have been a victim of fraud, contact the relevant bank or company immediately.

Remember: Safety First

Whether on vacation or in everyday life, the conscious consumer is better protected from digital dangers.

WiZink and Jornal de Negócios know the importance of keeping consumers informed and encouraging safe browsing on the web. Therefore, they have developed a partnership whose main goal is to help the average consumer stay protected from digital threats.

Learn more at the ABC of Phishing and Phishing Academy.

Stay safe!