Travel Safety

 

This article serves to discuss 5 ways by which you can protect yourself from hackers while traveling with your electronic and wireless devices.



Keep your Security Systems Updated

Office networks are generally the most secure Internet hotspots you can find. But even with your own office network, make sure to keep your operating systems and applications updated prior to going on a trip.

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Data miners often use application updates infested with Trojan horses in order to get access to your computer in public networks. They exploit your vulnerability by presenting you with something you appear to need.



Anti-virus software and malware scanners are your last lines of defense against a hacker once he is able to get through to your device via a public network. Keep it updated just like your operating system before you leave the office.



Beware of Unsecured Wireless Internet Providers

It is often tempting to check your email or social networking accounts while waiting for a flight. However, free Internet hotspot providers are highly public in nature and should be used cautiously.

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Malware and spyware thrive with such public Internet providers and hackers who use sniffer software, may be able to access your account information on multiple websites.



A warning was issued as of late by the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) informing the public of the dangers of pop up messages and websites which suddenly opening on a variety of devices while users are utilizing wireless internet connections at different hotels.

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These are usually security updates being used by hackers as a way of tricking users into loading malware. This is a common method for Internet crime perpetrators to steal account information from users who unwittingly connect to their fake hotspots.

 

Personal VPN

With the advent of improved technology, virtual private networks are now available for private users for as low as $5 dollars a month. This gives any Tom, Dick and Harry powerful encryption barriers against hackers.

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Providers such as WiTopia and Strong VPN pride themselves with the high level of security they provide. If your company has a VPN subscription, try to get your hands on it before going on the road.



Hard Drive Encryption

Laptop and mobile device data are probably worth more to the hacker than the device itself. Information goes for very high prices on the black market. Whole disk encryption software practically shields your hard drive from illegal data miners.

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Device Tracking Software

Device tracking software such as LoJack or Find My Mac can be absolutely valuable in helping airport security personnel find even your physical laptop in the event it gets stolen.

 

For a one-time payment of just under ten dollars, you can even get a picture of the offender’s face using your device’s camera.