{"id":72094,"date":"2024-06-12T21:00:25","date_gmt":"2024-06-12T13:00:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.hongkiat.com\/blog\/?p=72094"},"modified":"2024-06-19T20:40:45","modified_gmt":"2024-06-19T12:40:45","slug":"stay-protected-traveling-tips","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.hongkiat.com\/blog\/stay-protected-traveling-tips\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Stay Protected While Traveling Abroad (5 Tips)"},"content":{"rendered":"

Traveling abroad is an exciting adventure, offering new experiences and cultures to explore, but staying safe is crucial, especially when you\u2019re in a foreign country or visiting unfamiliar places for the first time.<\/p>\n

As we rely more on technology, protecting yourself while traveling goes beyond just physical safety \u2013 it also includes digital security. It doesn\u2019t matter if you\u2019re a seasoned traveler; dangers can be unpredictable, and cybercrime could be just around the corner.<\/p>\n

According to an ExpressVPN blog post<\/a>, the travel and tourism industries are ranked third-most affected by cyberattacks. It\u2019s always wise to be prepared for the worst-case scenario (knock on wood!).<\/p>\n

This article will guide you through practical steps and tech tools to ensure your travels are safe and enjoyable.<\/p>\n

1. Secure Your Devices<\/h2>\n

Your smartphone, tablet, and laptop are essential tools when traveling, but they can also be vulnerable targets for theft or cyber attacks.<\/p>\n

To start, set up a passcode, fingerprint, or facial lock on all your devices if you haven\u2019t already \u2013 this is absolutely essential.<\/p>\n

For smartphones and tablets, ensure that \u201cFind My\u201d (or a similar tracking feature) is turned on. In case your device gets lost, you can easily lock it to prevent unauthorized access.<\/p>\n

\"Find<\/figure>\n

Also, make sure all the software and apps on your devices are updated to their latest versions.<\/p>\n

Keep all the essential apps and programs you anticipate using easily accessible. For example, have map apps, translation apps, and other vital tools readily available on your home screen or desktop. This ensures quick access when you need them most.<\/p>\n

2. Enable Two-Factor Authentication<\/h2>\n

Two-factor authentication (2FA)<\/a> is a critical security measure that adds an extra layer of protection to your online accounts. When enabled, 2FA requires not only your password but also a second piece of information to verify your identity. This second factor could be a text message code, an email confirmation, or an authentication app like Google Authenticator<\/a> or Authy<\/a>.<\/p>\n

\"Authy<\/figure>\n

One important thing to keep in mind is that when setting up 2FA for the apps you anticipate using overseas, it\u2019s best to use an authentication app like Authy or Google Authenticator for the second layer of identification, instead of having codes sent to you via SMS. You might not have access to your local phone line when traveling abroad.<\/p>\n

3. Use Travel-Specific Apps<\/h2>\n

Travel-specific apps<\/a> can be incredibly useful not only for staying safe but also for keeping you informed and organized when you are abroad. The apps you need may vary depending on where you are traveling to, but here are some types of apps to keep in mind:<\/p>\n