Catie Moore
When you go on a trip, your phone becomes your main assistant. Maps, photos, tickets, banking apps – you keep it all in one pocket. But if you don’t take care of your phone’s security, your trip can turn into trouble. Here are simple but important tips on how to protect your smartphone while traveling.
Set up a strong password or biometric protection
Surprisingly, almost 30% of users still do not set passwords on their phones. This is one of the simplest security measures. Choose a complex password or use a fingerprint scanner or facial recognition if available on your device. These features are much more difficult to bypass than a simple pattern.
Activate the “Find My Device” feature
All modern phones have a device locator feature. For example, Apple has Find My iPhone, Android has Find My Device. If your phone gets lost or stolen, you can track its location or even remotely delete all the data so that it does not fall into the wrong hands.
Use a eSIM card for security
If you are planning to travel abroad, especially to countries with high fraud rates like Spain, considering using an eSIM is a great idea. Unlike regular SIM cards, an eSIM cannot be
stolen or lost, as it is built right into the phone. This provides additional protection. Plus, you can easily connect to local operators without wasting time buying new travel SIM cards. Many major operators already support eSIM, so setting it up will only take a couple of minutes. In case you doubt, feel free to read some more tips on virtual SIM card usage and eSIM service on esimcards.co.
Be careful with public Wi-Fi networks and disable auto-connection
Even if you’re in your favorite cafe with perfect Wi-Fi, connecting to public networks is a risk. Fraudsters can easily intercept the data you send. If you can’t use a mobile connection, turn on a VPN.
Many phones also have auto-connection to Wi-Fi enabled by default. This is convenient at home, but it is risky in an unfamiliar place. Check in the settings and disable auto-connection. It is better to manually select networks that you trust.
Regularly update applications and the system
Did you know that developers release updates not only for new features? Most updates include digital security patches that eliminate vulnerabilities in the system. So before you travel, check that your operating system and all important applications, such as banking or messengers, are updated.
Back up your data
The worst-case scenario is losing your phone. But if you back up your data in advance, the situation won’t be so critical. iCloud, Google Drive, Dropbox – there are plenty of options. This is especially important for photos and videos that you’ll be taking while traveling.
Avoid connecting to unknown chargers
If your phone runs out of battery at the airport or train station and you’ve forgotten your cable, don’t rush to use the first charger you come across. This could be juice jacking – a type of cyberattack where attackers gain access to your phone’s data through public charging stations. It’s better to use your own cable or portable battery.
Turn off Bluetooth and NFC
These features are useful, but they can be a threat when traveling. Attackers can use vulnerabilities in Bluetooth or NFC to connect to your phone and steal data. If you don’t use headphones or contactless payments, it’s best to turn off these features until you need them.
Keep your phone out of the reach of pickpockets
In some countries or cities, pickpockets are a real problem for tourists. Carry your phone in a hard-to-reach place, for example, in an inside pocket of a jacket or a bag with a zipper. Never leave it in the back pocket of your jeans or on a table in a cafe – it attracts too much attention from thieves.
Use physical protection
A simple solution is physical protection of the phone. Buy a good case with protection from shocks and falls. If you are going to the beach or to places with high humidity, consider a waterproof case. Mechanical damage to the phone is a common cause of breakdowns during travel.
Turn on data encryption
Many modern phones support data encryption. This means that even if someone steals your phone and tries to extract information, they will not be able to read the files without a password or biometrics. Check your phone’s security settings and activate data encryption if it is not already enabled.
Save documents in case of phone loss
It is very convenient to have copies of documents, tickets or hotel addresses on your phone. But just in case, it is worth having a physical copy of important papers – passport, insurance and tickets. Or save them on a secure cloud storage that you can access from any other device.
Think about phone insurance
Many tourists forget that phones can also be insured, especially if it is an expensive model. Some insurances cover not only breakdowns, but also theft of the device. This is especially useful if you are traveling to countries with high crime rates.
Bottom line
When traveling, your phone is your main connection to the world. Following these simple tips will significantly reduce the risk of data loss or device theft. Virtual SIM card will add an extra layer of protection, and a VPN and a strong password will help keep your data safe. Take care of your device in advance so that your trip goes smoothly and without worries!
Comments