If you’re heading out for some grand summer travels, keep yourself and the information on your devices safe by following these tips.
Preparing for your adventure
- Back up your devices. Even if a bear takes off with your phone or it floats away while you’re in space, backing up your devices means you won’t have to sweat about losing your data, contacts or photos.
- Update your devices. Make sure your devices’ operating systems and apps are current and have the most up-to-date security.
- Always lock your devices. Set a strong passcode and ensure each device automatically locks to keep snoopers out of your stuff. Some devices will automatically enable data protection encryption when you set up a device passcode or password.
- Turn on recovery services. Never fear losing or leaving your device behind and it being gone forever — you can track it through a recovery service.
- Apple devices have the Find My app.
- Android devices include the Find My Device app.
- Most other devices have an option for you to erase your data if your device is stolen.
Just ‘Rome-ing’ around
- Avoid unknown Wi-Fi networks. This includes public networks in hotels, airports and house rentals. Always be on the lookout for networks that seem suspicious, such as those named “Free Wi-Fi.” When in doubt, double-check with staff to ensure you are connecting to a secure Wi-Fi network.
- Avoid entering personal information on public computers. If your hotel or house rental has an office center, never enter personal information like credit cards, birthdays or addresses, or log into any personal accounts on these free computers and printers.
- Use a trusted virtual private network (VPN). Using a VPN will secure your data while you are browsing the internet, no matter where you are.
- Turn off auto-connect. Prevent connecting to unknown Wi-Fi and Bluetooth devices automatically and accidentally. Remember to disable
- AirDrop if you have an iPhone or
- Nearby Share if you have a Google device.
Hit the road, Jack
- Travel lightly. The fewer devices you bring on your travels, the less you risk losing them and your data. Bring what you absolutely need when traveling, and cut back where possible.
- Don’t be a target. Keep expensive electronic devices out of sight and reach. Just as you wouldn’t leave your wallet unattended, don’t leave your phone at a table to save your seat.
- Use smart location sharing. Before going off the grid, such as taking a long hike in the woods or a boat ride off the coast, share your trip itinerary and location with a family member or close friend. But don’t be too friendly and share this information on social media for the world to see.
