Flights booked. Bags packed. Passport ready. But before you step onto a plane or log into airport Wi-Fi, there’s one more thing to prepare: your digital safety. Public Wi-Fi, unfamiliar networks, lost devices, and rushed decision-making create the perfect environment for cybercriminals. A few simple steps before, during, and after your trip can help keep your data, identity, and devices secure.

Before You Travel: Set Up for Safety 

Back up your data 

• Create backups of important files and photos and store them somewhere secure and separate from your devices. 

Update your device and apps 

• Install the latest software updates for your operating system, apps, and antivirus software to strengthen security. 

Use strong, unique passwords   

• Consider using a password manager to create and store strong, unique passwords, tools like Trend Micro’s Password Generator can help you get started. 

Disable auto-connect options 

• Turn off automatic Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections to prevent your device from joining unknown or unsafe networks.
  

Stay Secure While Travelling

Use a VPN on public networks 

• A Virtual Private Network encrypts your internet connection, especially important when using Wi-Fi at airports, hotels, or cafés. 

Avoid public Wi-Fi for important tasks 

• Use mobile data for online banking or accounts containing personal information. If you must use public Wi-Fi, use a VPN and avoid logging into accounts. 

Watch out for suspicious messages 

• Scammers target travellers with fake booking updates, flight confirmations, and hotel emails. Always type website addresses directly instead of clicking links. 

Protect your devices physically 

• Keep devices with you or locked in a hotel safe. Consider using a privacy screen to prevent shoulder-surfing in public areas. 

Think before you post 

• Avoid sharing your real-time location; it can unintentionally alert people that your home is empty or put your travel schedule at risk. 

Be cautious of USB charges 

• Public charging stations and unknown USB cables can expose your device to malware. Use your own charger or a USB data blocker when travelling.

After You Return: Check and Reset 

Monitor your accounts 

• Keep an eye on financial and online accounts for unusual activity during and after your trip. 

Log out and change passwords 

• Log out of any accounts you accessed while travelling and update passwords if you used public or shared Wi-Fi.