Nowadays when we travel we are often taking with us various technologies, such as your smart phone, tablet or laptop that are connected. Like getting the necessary vaccinations prior to travel, it is important to prepare your technology to ensure you don’t have any infections that spoil your trip! Here are seven tips for travelling with technology.
Use secure networks
Internet wireless access points are available freely in many locations around the world. From hotels, coffee shops to even major attractions, wireless is becoming available either for free or at low cost to encourage guests and visitors. However, before connecting to these networks, you should always ensure it is secure connection. You can check wireless security prior to connecting by looking for the padlock or identify that shows it is secure. Also, wireless networks that use passwords are more secure than those that aren’t, however always be cautious what networks you connect to you.
Use HTTPS rather than HTTP
Rather than entering http:// followed by your website address to access a website, it is suggested you use https://. The “s” stands for “secure” and provides a secure way of accessing your website and checking its security certificate. This is particularly useful if you are entering usernames and passwords for websites, especially banking, email and also shopping online. Some email systems you can set up so it uses https by default.
Turn on flight mode
Using “flight mode” on your device prevents use of signals being transmitted whilst travelling in an airplane. Whilst you are unable to make or receive calls or send messages, this allows you use other features of the device.
Some aircraft carriers are now making wireless internet available during the flight, so whilst you can turn flight mode on, you can re-enable wireless without the concern of transmitting signals. However, the device should be turned off during the airplane’s takeoff and landing.
Set passwords on your device
Make sure you have set appropriate passwords on the device, and if possible decrypt the device and any external media (such as your memory card) to prevent authorised access if it is lost or stolen. Apps are available to be installed on most devices so you can find the device to be located if it is lost using a map (provided GPS is on), send messages which display on the screen, even make the device “scream”, even delete the entire device if the password is incorrectly entered multiple times.
Watch your back
Just because your device might be on your laptop in a public location, you may not see someone behind you or watching over you as you use your device or enter your password, so be careful where you are entering information. Even on local commuter trips, we have seen people publically enter in their details, such as their passwords or even credit card numbers! It is best to do this in a safe and private location, in your hotel room rather than in the lobby or foyer!
Get insurance on your device
As computers become more light and portable, it may be may be more likely of getting damaged (especially if stored with luggage). It is recommend insurance for devices especially for work purposes whilst travelling overseas.
Use a firewall and internet security package
No matter what device you are, running, it is essential to have internet security package installed on your device. This will prevent you from viruses, malware and other vulnerabilities that affect nearly every device. They will alert you if you are downloading a bad app and secure your connection. We have mentioned Norton Mobile Security but others are also available. Check your device’s App Store for what is available.
For further recommendations or advice prior to travel overseas, please feel free to contact us so we can assist you with our Support solution. Safe and happy travels!