Traveling with data can be quite risky nowadays. There are lots of hackers who can steal your information while you are using the public network or charging your smartphone/laptop, etc. Even border agents, who just do their job, might accidentally invade your privacy. Let’s get to know how you can secure your data when traveling.
Five tips to help you secure your data when traveling
- Use a reliable VPN provider.
Connecting to public Wi-Fi is almost inevitable when traveling. They are everywhere: hotels, shops, cafes, etc. That’s why you should be proactive and buy services from a trustworthy VPN provider. Using its app, you’ll be able to have an encrypted connection, complete anonymity, and an extra layer of protection from hackers.
- Don’t use public USB charging stations.
Charging station in the train stations and airports have probably been tempered with. Consequently, you might lose your data without even noticing it. It’s much better to use electrical outlets if you need to charge your device. Another solution is to pick a USB cable that doesn’t transmit data and take it with you on a trip. You are sure to prevent hacking via this method.
- Transfer sensitive data to the cloud.
There is no need to carry all the data with you. In case you have something confidential, you don’t want the border agents to see (or you worry about thieves), you can simply move the files to the cloud and remove from your device.
- Delete password managers.
This tip will only work for those whose devices can be examined by border guards. They can use your password manager to access all the data. Without it, they’ve got no authority to make you unlock the files. If needed, you can reinstall the manager.
- Don’t be uncooperative.
It also concerns border agents. Since they have a wide latitude of things they might request, you should be cooperative lest you want to be detained. Think about it beforehand and remove everything you don’t want others to see.
Using these tips, you are sure to secure your data from falling into anyone’s hands. However, there is much more you can do. For example, create backup files and store them safely in a convenient place. This might be a backup device or a cloud.
It’s also better not to leave your devices anywhere unattended. For example, don’t leave your phone in the bar or on a restaurant table, etc.
Finally, there are tips about keeping your data safe that doesn’t concern fraud. For instance, you must keep your devices away from liquids. While it sounds silly, you might lose the data unless you have a waterproof device. It won’t be anyone’s fault but there will be nothing you could do to restore the information.
Conclusion
Keeping your files safe during traveling includes protecting them from hackers, people like border guards, and even accidents. Use the tips you’ve learned from here and have no more worries when traveling.