If you use public WiFi when you travel, personal data on your devices are at risk unless you take steps to protect it. The devices themselves are also at risk from theft, and if stolen, can be used to access your data and accounts. Follow these easy steps to help protect your data and devices from criminals.
Preparation
Give yourself at least a couple of hours to prepare your devices before you go.
- Install WiscVPN. WiscVPN is free, safe, and reliable.
- Download and install free Symantec anti-virus software.
- Don’t travel with sensitive data on your computer, neither yours nor that belonging to anyone else. Use Identity Finder to locate and remove restricted data.
- Leave your laptop at home, and reserve a loaner, especially if you’re traveling abroad.
- Learn how to recognize secure websites, and avoid insecure ones.
- Make sure you’re using strong passwords for your accounts and your devices.
While traveling
- Keep your laptop and devices nearby.
- Use WiscVPN, especially when you’re sending sensitive information.
- Disable Bluetooth and WiFi capabilities on your device when not using them.
- Always be aware of your surroundings while using your devices to help prevent anyone watching while you enter passwords or sensitive data.
After you return
- Upon returning, change your passwords for all accounts accessed while traveling.
- Return your loaner, which will be wiped of all data.
Want to know more?
For more tips, view the Safe Computing When Traveling Abroad Guide.