As travelers prepare to head out for fall getaways, cybersecurity experts are warning that hackers may be tagging along — virtually. From airports to hotel lobbies, digital threats like public Wi-Fi scams, Bluetooth attacks and “juice jacking” are targeting travelers’ personal devices more than ever.
“Any time you connect to a public network or plug into a shared charger, you’re opening a door to your private data,” said cybersecurity analyst Mark Daniels. “A few small precautions can make all the difference.”
Public Wi-Fi: Convenient but risky
Free Wi-Fi at airports, hotels and coffee shops is a common amenity — and a common target for cybercriminals. Hackers can easily monitor unsecured connections or create fake “free Wi-Fi” networks designed to steal login credentials and personal data.
Experts recommend avoiding logging into banking or sensitive accounts on public Wi-Fi. Use a VPN (virtual private network) to encrypt your connection. Turn off file sharing and make sure your firewall is enabled. When possible, rely on your mobile data or personal hotspot instead.
Bluetooth: Hidden threats in plain sight
Bluetooth connections are another easy access point for hackers, particularly in crowded spaces like airports and conference centers.
Stay protected by turning off Bluetooth when not in use Also, ignore unfamiliar pairing requests. Set your device to “non-discoverable” mode so it doesn’t appear to nearby users.
Juice jacking: Don’t get plugged in
Security agencies, including the FBI, have warned travelers about “juice jacking,” a scheme where public USB charging ports are used to install malware or steal data.
To stay safe, carry your own wall charger or portable power bank. Use a USB data blocker or charge-only cable. If you must use a public station, power off your device first.
Offload and update before departure
Before heading out, take time to review your device’s security settings and apps. Unused apps can collect data or expose you to privacy risks.
Offload or delete apps you don’t plan to use. Install the latest software updates and enable a screen lock or encryption. Back up important files to the cloud or an external drive.
Travel light — digitally
Minimizing the number of devices and sensitive accounts you bring reduces your exposure. Log out of apps that store personal or financial information and avoid saving passwords directly to your device.
While cybersecurity might not be the first thing travelers think about when planning a trip, experts say it should be part of every packing checklist.
“Just like you pack sunscreen to protect your skin, you need digital protection to safeguard your data,” Daniels said. “The goal is to travel smart and stay safe — both offline and online.”
