Digital Security Abroad: 14 Tech Safety Travel Tips
Tech and Travel
The world has rapidly acquired newer and faster technologies. Many of these have helped the world tremendously with resources, information and services more available than ever. However, this also means that digital security abroad is more important than ever.
Digital security abroad while traveling is unique. The circumstances in which hackers can gain access to information are different and their techniques vary from standard hacking
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General Habits for Digital Secuirty Abroad
When looking at digital security abroad, hackers make use of unfamiliar languages and settings to better leverage access opportunities. The best and first defense a person can take is to make their electronics as physically inaccessible as possible.
Phones and laptops should be kept hidden or secured unless actively being used. Credit cards are best stored in emergency hiding spots on your person, preferable in a RFID blocker pouch. If you are using your electronics, avoid leaving them out openly when not using them.
These are physical tactics which can prevent access to your electronics and devices. Realistically, however, the internet is a powerful travel tool and digital protection strategies need to come into play as well.
Power Down at Security Checkpoints
When traveling, everyone needs to go through a security checkpoint for entry and exit. Whether this is a land border, airport security, a metro scanner or venue event, powering down your deceive is a good precaution.
Generally, a device should have two factor authentication to access (for example, fingerprint scanner and password input). However, there are laws in certain countries that allow secuirty agents to access your device anyway. While this is rarely employed, the temptations to hold up a line, power on your device and thumb through files is much less appealing when a device is apparently dead.
Turning off your device when passing through checkpoints can speed up the security process and make your device un-scannable. While the risks for these situations are extremely low, powering down at security is a good habit to develop.
Multi-Factor Authentication On All Devices
The absolute best thing a person can do to ensure device security is through Two Factor Authentication or Multi-Factor Authentication. This ensures you are the only person capable of using your device for the majority of functions. Multi Factor Authentication can involve two security hurdles, such as facial recognition or fingerprint scans (who-you-are-security) paired with a passcode (what-you-know-security).
Aside from making your device simply harder to access, multi-factor authentication can also deter brute force hacking techniques. One of the most common methodologies for hacking a physical device involves “brute force hacking” where a program methodically inputs information sequences until the password is found. Depending on the strength of a password and the power of the hacking software, this can take hours or even days of calculations. Multi-Factor Authentication can double or triple the amount of time needed for brute force hacking.
This can be a great safety measure if a device is stolen. It gives a person more time to track their device if it has a tracking fob or GPS location software. It can also allow a person to go online from a different device and change all their passwords, effectively locking a thief out from lucrative financial and social information.
Encrypt Sensitive Information
Encrypting information is one of the best ways to ensure security. Encrypting involves randomizing data into unreadable bits which cannot be realigned into relevant information with a password or decryption code.
If you have sensitive data with you (for example, a USB stick with emergency information or medical data) encrypting it keeps the information safe, even if the USB is lost or stolen. There are free encryption tools available with computers, phones and online tools and the process is very simple. The extra precaution can protect important information even when frontline security is breached.
Use a Mobile VPN
A Virtual Private Network or VPN is a service which allows a person to function online without third parties being able to watch activities. A VPN uses encrypted tunnels so that the only digital resources that can see your actions are you and the online resource you’re using.
A VPN is very useful when assuring digital security abroad. This software has the advantage of bypassing firewalls in certain countries (like China) preventing a person from using regular resources (such as Google or Facebook). A VPN can also allow you to access services that might not be available in another country (for example, a person might not be able to use a paid-for streaming service in Romania unless connected to a US server).
Most of all, a VPN increases a person’s online anonymity. While not absolutely foolproof, traveling with a VPN increases digital security considerably by preventing other hackers or web traffic monitors from spying on your actions.
Look at the Leftade Trails VPN recommendations by reading about it here.
Avoid Public WIFI
WIFI is a wonderful, versatile invention, available in almost every major city on Earth. However, WIFI connection points are a vulnerability for considering digital security abroad.
Unprotected “free” WIFI is particularly dangerous. Hackers can set up fake public WIFI hubs which track your internet and online activities, including password inputs. It is also possible to use Open WIFI (non-password-protected WIFI) to set up additional spyware and malware.
While trusted WIFI (such as your hotel, hostel or protected restaurants) is somewhat safer, always limit how much data you input while using it.
Use Official Sites
One of the most common scams travelers face online is the use of fake, unverified websites. A lot of fake websites sell overpriced tickets or scam a person into nonexistent tours and activities. Many of these sites rely on clunky language and translation programs for obscurity.
The best way to avoid these sorts of digital scams involves using only verified resources. Purchasing tickets and services through highly vetted websites, travel agencies and government companies can limit scam exposure. It is wise to look for services which are offered in a person’s native language. If it isn’t possible to find such resources (such as buying tickets to a Japanese culture event in Sapporo) , look for travelers who have used this service before you, or have a local you trust walk you through the online process.
If at any point you find yourself on a website with clunky, clearly incorrect English and an unpolished look, navigate away. Consider using different search engines, especially local country ones and translation software to find more legitimate-looking websites.
Use Outlets, Never USB Ports
Many public locations cater to digital travelers. These places, such as public venues, cafes and restaurants, offer USB charging ports for your devices.
Never plug your phone or another device into a public USB cord or port. It is possible for computers to actively access your device through a USB port.
Instead, always use power outlets. Power outlets everywhere in the world are pure electricity without data-transit capacities. Keep a universal adapter on hand so you can charge your device using any of the world’s various outlets. The best universal adapters have USB charging ports for USB-specific cables.
Never Scan QR Codes
When traveling, it is common to see QR Codes scattered about. A QR Code is a image pattern which allows a person to use their device’s camera to access an online resource. QR Codes are very popular with promotional artists and activist who wish to spread detailed information to a broader audience. While traveling, you may see QR Codes stickered onto lamp posts, painted on walls or printed on paper.
Never scan a public QR Code. Hackers can use QR Codes to take you to dangerous websites, potentially uploading a viral payload. QR Codes are too large of a security gamble for your device. The only exception to this is restaurant menus using QR Codes to place an order.
Disable WIFI and Bluetooth When Not In Use
If you aren’t actively connected to WIFI or Bluetooth, consider putting your phone in airplane mode or specifically turning of WIFI and Bluetooth. This can force your phone to use only secure data connection services or work entirely offline. While this is very low-risk, turning off unneeded WIFI and Bluetooth connections limits wireless connectivity vulnerabilities.
Run Frequent Update Programs
Hackers and data mining individuals are among the most industrious and creative people on Earth. As a group or individuals, they are constantly overcoming security, firewalls and protective software.
Working equally hard, however, are security companies, digital corporations and official entities dedicated to keeping their services safe, reliable and trusted. These groups which constantly update your apps and software are offering new security patches with each new iteration.
Update your devices , software and applications frequently over secure WIFI networks whenever possible.
Check ATM and Cash Machines
One of the most common ways to get hacked abroad is through the use of Skimmers. These are devices attached to ATM and payment machines. They scan a card’s chip data when the card is placed into the machine.
Skimmers can usually be seen or felt if a person runs their fingers across a card entry point prior to it being used. However, some skimmers are sufficiently advanced to be difficult to spot.
Always use ATMs and machines which are inside buildings, such as secure banks. Never use devices that have open access to a street, since these can have skimmers installed without anyone noticing. Likewise, make sure your bank account is secure with Multi-Factor Authentication and keep an eye on transactions.
As with anywhere, keep your PIN hidden by blocking the pad with your body and covering the pad with your free hand.
Don’t Flaunt Tech
One of the best ways to stop hackers from going after your device is to keep them somewhat hidden. Keep your devices in pockets or luggage when not in use, preferably powered down. Aside from saving batteries, this also prevents wireless hackers from being able to find devices to hack in the first place. Avoid using your expensive digital tools in unsafe and crowded places whenever possible.
Consider a Decoy Device
In some cases, it may be handy to have a secondary “decoy” phone or device. This is a cheap, outdated or free electronic device that can manage a couple of basic functions, such as navigation. This device can be lost or stolen without serious repercussions.
The decoy device I carry is a free 2010 smartphone received during a promotional event. It can only read books, navigate on Google Maps and use the flashlight feature. I frequently carry it in the open while traveling. Even if it were to be pickpocketed or broken, its loss wouldn’t impact my life in any way.
Technology Safety Awareness
Always take good care of your devices and consider your digital security abroad Just like personal safety, digital security is a matter of developing good habits while working or operating online.
Best regards and excellent trails,
Old Sean
From stories about technology behind the Great Firewall of China to a dead phone on an icy tundra. Read about it here at Leftfade Trails Blog.
Undershirt Passport Pocket
For the traveler constantly in motion, it’s a very good idea to have a hidden pocket for your passport. This holster or pouch allows a passport to be worn undetected under a jacket or shirt. It can also block RDIF scans for increased security.