From the dangers that hide behind a web reservation, to those that pass through public Wi-Fi: here's how to protect your personal data on vacation
Hackers never go on vacation, not even in the summer. And it is precisely at this time, when we are generally more relaxed, that we become easy targets of scams and computer violations. Before leaving, in addition to the destination, it is necessary to consider, therefore, how to protect your data.
Not being safe against cyber criminals is very dangerous, for a number of obvious reasons. Starting from the fact that we live in an era where we are constantly connected. It is enough to think about the amount of sensitive information that a simple smartphone can contain, a device that has become an extension of our body and that we would never give up. Not even on vacation. Consequently, the risks are really many. If we were to lose our mobile device on the beach, what would we be up against? Nothing good, unfortunately. Or, how many people book their vacations online only to realize they've been scammed? A lot.
It is therefore important to know how to behave on vacation in order to defend oneself against hackers.
Avoid insecure websites
Online booking has, undoubtedly, numerous advantages. One above all: it offers the possibility of saving money. And it is much easier to buy a flight on the Internet than going to an agency. There are, however, dangers, which many still continue to underestimate. There are many, in fact, the scammers on the net who are just waiting to steal our money. Be wary of those who offer you luxury stays at bargain prices and above all avoid, like the plague, insecure platforms.
There are several criteria to unmask the swindlers. The first trick is to use only the most popular sites: check the web for reviews and opinions of other people. And remember, before making a payment, to check the protocol used by the site: if the famous green padlock is not visible, leave it alone.
Watch out for public Wi-Fi networks
We have often talked about the dangers of using public Wi-Fi networks. When we are on vacation, especially abroad, it is almost natural to look for a free internet connection. In the hotel, on the beach or in the pub, it doesn't matter: it is good that you know that unprotected Wi-Fi networks are risky. The reason is very simple: anyone can very easily access your Internet traffic, and it's child's play for a hacker to steal your personal data.
A piece of advice: limit your use as much as possible. However, it is not always possible. Well, in these cases avoid logging into accounts and disconnect from all apps that contain sensitive data, such as banking apps. Why? Because they are not protected, a cybercriminal could hack into free wifi networks and intercept your information.
Don't leave smartphones or tablets unattended
Taking care of your devices means preventing someone from taking away the precious last generation smartphone that cost us a fortune. And not only that. It prevents our data from being stolen. On a cell phone there are, in fact, many sensitive information: images, videos, phone contacts, documents. It is important, therefore, to try to limit the dangers as much as possible. Set a hard-to-find password to protect your smartphone or, even better, don't forget to activate the biometric reader.