Travelling without a mobile phone?? Nowadays, it seems impossible!! The mobile phone allows you to capture your precious memories, keep in touch with your loved ones, and navigate new cities. Picture this: You are on your trip, and your phone gets damaged, stolen, or lost. What would you do in this situation?

If you don’t want this to happen to you and want to enjoy a worry-free break, keep the following tips in mind to keep your device secure while travelling.

1. A strong password is a must.

Whether at home or travelling, you should never overlook the power of a robust password. Never use the same passwords across all your accounts. Wherever it is possible, apply 2FA – two-factor authentication/ MFA- multi-factor authentication.

Use the password manager apps to help you store and generate exclusive and complex passwords for each service you use. You can even use fingerprint ID or facial recognition to protect your mobile device (and data).

If you are an Android user and want to set up the screen lock, you need to go to Settings -> Security -> Screenlock. On the other hand, iPhone users will find the Screenlock option under Settings -> FaceID & Passcode.

2. Say no to public Wi-Fi networks without any protection

Free Wi-Fi is an excellent way to stay connected and save your data while travelling. However, never use the public Wi-Fi network without any protection because usually it is not secure. Hackers generally look for security gaps to compromise data such as financial information or account logins.    

If you plan to use the public Wi-Fi network during your trip, install a reliable VPN app on your smartphone. Therefore, now hackers won’t be able to read your data. It will give you peace of mind, especially when you need to perform financial transactions such as online banking through a free Wi-Fi network.

Turn off your Bluetooth and Wi-Fi when you are not using it. It will help you save your battery, especially when travelling.

3. Turn off location services.

You need to be mindful of your digital footprint. Therefore, turn off the location services of your camera app. So no one can know where you are. You also need to minimize the social media updates. Update photos and videos later when you are using a secure connection. It is good that you be selective about people to tell regarding your location, what you are doing, and how long you will be travelling.

4. Update your OS and apps to the latest version.

Generally, OS and apps include important security patches that will help you address the recent vulnerabilities. Therefore, before you go on a trip, install all the latest updates. If you don’t do it, there is a high chance that your device will be open to hacking attacks and viruses.

5. Turn on the “Find My Device” feature.

Everyone wants to enjoy their trip to the fullest but protecting against device loss or theft is essential. Enable the Find My Device and remote wiping feature on your phone. It will give you complete control to locate the lost phone or erase sensitive information if it falls into the wrong hands.

If you are using an iPhone, to find this feature, you need to go to Settings -> Your Name -> Find My. On the flip side, if you are an Android user, go to Settings -> Security -> Find My Device.

6. Take regular backups of your photos.

If your phone is lost or damaged, you might lose the years of memories that you have captured in photos. Therefore, habitually back up your photos and important information to online storage or on the hard drive. Take out the time before you go on vacation and take the backup of your photos. Also, activate automatic photo backups on your phone.

7. Make your phone physically strong.

Purchase a durable case and screen protector from a well-known brand. It will secure your mobile against accidental drops, scratches, and damage while travelling. Use an RFID-blocking wallet or sleeve to protect your smartphone from hackers. Use a ziplock bag if you are planning to go to the beach or pool. It will protect your phone from sand and even accidental dunking. 

8. Be alert of your surroundings.

Be aware of your surroundings whenever you are in a crowded place because theft and pickpocketing happen in such places. Keep your phone in the front pocket and avoid flashing it publically unnecessary.

 And Now, Just Chill!

Going on a trip offers an escape from the daily routine. However, this freedom comes with cybersecurity risks. Don’t let cybersecurity worries dominate your holidays. Practice protective measures to protect your personal information so you can enjoy a worry-free vacation. Following the tips discussed above, you can safeguard your device and enjoy a stress-free holiday. Doing this will reduce digital disruption risks, and you can focus on embracing the enjoyment and exploration that travel brings.