Internet fraud has increased with approximately 40% according to the Swedish news page SvD. Combined with how many important features we currently have in our phones and not to mention all personal data these devices contain, you quickly become aware of the importance of keeping your phone safe while traveling this summer.
There are a few things to keep in mind when managing your phone when out on vacation. We have listed the four most important below.
1 Surf carefully on open WiFi
After a nice day at the beach or an exciting day of sightseeing in a new city, it can be tempting to check social media and read the latest news on the phone. At a café or a beach bar you’ll probably read a sign that says “We have free WIFI” and think: hallelujah, the day is saved! And of course it’s nice to be able to surf for free but we just want to give a warning when it comes to these networks.
There are cyber hackers who want to access sensitive information such as card numbers and passwords. Therefore, you should cautiously surf these networks. Avoid entering pages with important information, such as bank pages or similar.
Something that also may be important is to look out for when several free networks have similar names. Some hackers set up WIFI that mimic the restaurant’s or café’s own to lure you to log in to theirs. All this so they can be able to take the information they want. So be careful and make sure that the network really belongs to the place you are in.
By using a high-quality VPN, you can keep your information safe while browsing public networks. The VPN encrypts your traffic so that criminals using the same network can’t access your information. VPNs such as Hotspot Shield allow multiple downloads for simultaneous use on your laptop and your phone. A perfect way to keep the phone safe.
2 Charge your phone in trusted areas
Forbes believes that it may be risky to charge phones at charging stations. By charging stations we mean those that are available at airports or similar where you just plug in the actual charging cable in the USB port. Since USB ports can send data, you can use the USB port to install virus and download personal data from your phone.
Caleb Barlow, head of IBM Security, believes that using airport charging stations is like picking up a toothbrush you’ve found at the roadside and then putting it in your mouth. You have no idea where it has been before.
Instead, use a charger with the entire outlet and look for a regular outlet. Otherwise bring a portable charger or a power bank with you so you are sure to charge safely.
3 Buy a good case
We know, it sounds obvious. However, because the phone is so crucial every day, it may be of extra importance when out and about, and it’s just plain unnecessary to risk cracking your phone on vacation. A good case or a protective glass is a good investment for those with fiddly thumbs.
4 Use apps that can find your phone
There are countless apps that helps you track your phone, some may even be able to shut it off if needed. In order to properly work, the app needs to be installed and active before the phone is lost.
These services are usually accessed through a login and require a different unit where you can access the location. In some cases these apps can even shut down the phone, trigger an alarm or take pictures of the thief. Perfect if the phone is lost or stolen.