Travelling is a great way to escape the stresses of daily life and open your mind to new locations and cultures. ABTA’s 2025 Travel Trends report shows more of us are considering less familiar destinations this year.
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Unfortunately, that doesn’t mean you can forget about cybersecurity. In fact, travel may even expose you to new threats.
Your personal data could be a target, whether you’re posting about your trip on Instagram, catching up on messages or booking onward journeys but sticking to key principles can help you stay safe, no matter where you end up.
Be wary of public Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi can be handy when you’re on the move, especially if you’re low on mobile data or signal. You might take advantage in transport hubs, cafes and hotels but if a public network isn’t protected, you expose yourself to hackers.
If you must use free Wi-Fi, be mindful of your activity and avoid logging into sensitive accounts like online banking. Ideally, you should use a virtual private network (VPN) and luckily I’m going to look at that next.
Install a VPN
VPNs turn public networks private by encrypting your connection and routing it through a secure server. Without one, your activity is visible to bad actors – including local authorities in more authoritarian destinations, who may restrict what you can access.
There are several VPN providers out there, so do research to find one with strong encryption, good server coverage and positive reviews. You might want to test it out pre-departure to make sure it runs smoothly.
Use strong passwords
Simple login details are an obvious weak spot for cybercriminals to exploit, so create stronger logins if you know yours aren’t up to scratch.
A password manager can make generating and storing them simple, rather than testing your memory every time. Handily, some VPNs come with a free password manager to make your life easier.
Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security by asking for a second verification, such as a text or email code. Additionally, set up biometric authentication for compatible devices and don’t leave them out of your sight.
Update your devices and apps
Software updates can seem annoying given how frequently they’re released. However, developers often create these patches to fix security flaws so ignoring them is risky. Check for pending updates before you go and check for new ones whenever you’re securely connected.
Avoid common scams
Common scams targeting travellers include fake booking websites and phishing emails. Always double-check URLs before entering sensitive information, avoid clicking on suspicious links and stick to well-known sources for your travel bookings.
If a deal sounds too good to be true, it likely is – so trust your instincts.
Health tourism is on the rise, with more of us seeking trips that benefit our physical and mental health. However, your digital wellbeing can be just as important.
By following these basic measures, you can focus on enjoying your trip without constantly worrying about your data.
