As summer rolls in and travel plans ramp up, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of airports, road trips, and relaxation. But while you’re checking flight times and booking hotels, cybercriminals are checking for new opportunities — and unsecured travelers can be prime targets.
Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, don’t leave your cybersecurity at home. Here are essential tips to protect your data, devices, and digital identity while you enjoy your summer adventures.
Pack a Cyber-Safe Travel Kit
Before you hit the road, prepare your devices for travel.
Checklist:
- Install the latest software and security updates.
- Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) on all important accounts.
- Back up your data to the cloud or a secure external drive.
- Bring a portable charger — don’t rely on public USB charging stations, which can be tampered with (a threat known as “juice jacking”).
Lock Down Your Devices
Losing a phone, tablet, or laptop can be stressful — especially if it’s not secure.
Tips:
- Use strong passcodes, biometric locks, or Face ID.
- Make sure your devices and applications are encrypted to protect your data from unauthorized access.
- Set up remote wipe and location tracking in case your device is lost or stolen.
- Never leave your devices unattended, even for a few minutes.
Beware of Phishing Scams on the Go
Travel-related phishing scams are on the rise, especially during peak vacation seasons.
Common scams include:
- Fake travel confirmations or itineraries
- Fraudulent hotel or airline emails
- QR codes at tourist attractions that link to malicious sites
Pro tip: Always verify the sender, don’t click suspicious links, and go directly to trusted websites or apps instead.
Be Mindful of What You Share
It’s tempting to post that beach selfie or airport pic in real-time, but over-sharing can tip off thieves that you’re not home — or expose personal details to scammers.
Instead:
- Wait to post travel photos until after your trip.
- Be cautious about location tagging.
- Keep your social media profiles set to private.
Final Thought: Cybersecurity Travels With You
Cyber safety doesn’t take a vacation — and neither should your defenses. By taking a few proactive steps, you can keep your devices and data protected and focus on what really matters: enjoying your summer.
Need Help Getting Your Devices Travel-Ready?
Before you go, make sure your business and personal tech are protected.
Contact Tobin Solutions for expert cybersecurity support, travel prep checklists, and tools to keep your data safe wherever you roam.
We guarantee a better technology experience — at home, in the office, and on the road.
