We hope the summer of 2021 gets a taste of rediscovered freedom. And many of us would like to associate it with reunification and neglect, far from the fears and troubling climate we have all faced in recent months. Unfortunately, this recklessness can be dangerous for us in some areas. In terms of viruses, your smartphone is also threatened by cyber threats. So follow our advice to stay safe and enjoy your long-awaited vacation away from cyber threats:
1) Phone on a sound basis
This is not new anymore, it is necessary to systematically use the latest versions of mobile applications. Before you go on vacation, turn on updates for all your apps and devices. This will limit the exploitation of vulnerabilities. And always download your apps from official stores to get an extra guarantee.
2) Install a VPN
VPN (Virtual Private Network) software allows you to have a private connection wherever you are. The VPN then encrypts the traffic between the website you are visiting and your device. Once connected, you can surf the internet away from malicious eyes…
3) Identify malicious links
Did you receive a sudden emergency with abnormal communication? Distrust! On a PC, it is easier to identify abnormal and potentially harmful websites than on a smartphone. Therefore, please pay attention to the link sent to you via WhatsApp or SMS. If you are annoyed when you receive a link, please do not take the risk and click on it. Finally, sites whose URL begins with “HTTPS” are still supported.
4) Protection from prying eyes
When someone looks over your shoulder, we can let sensitive information slip away quickly. Your smartphone’s screen filter allows you to thwart their plans and face all those prying eyes, especially when you’re wandering among a group of tourists or at a holiday party.
5) Secure Networks
WiFi networks are never completely secure, but some are more than others. It is common for hackers to try to lure you into wifi hotspots by adding the word “free” to the end of the official network name. If you connect to it, it can copy and intercept all your data. Stay alert and only ask hotel or restaurant staff to confirm the name of the official network to avoid being hacked.
6) Limited automatic connections
To further reduce the risk of hacking, always make sure to uncheck the “Auto connect” box on your smartphone or laptop every time you connect to a public wifi. Once you are done browsing the internet, always go to your settings and then select the problematic public wifi network and remove it from your list of known networks.
While on vacation, and for anyone else in the future, always keep these tips in mind. Then enjoy your summer and your summer vacation without worrying about intruders. Thus, you will reduce the risk of hacking your phone and sensitive data. Which would take away your peace much more.
“Devoted gamer. Webaholic. Infuriatingly humble social media trailblazer. Lifelong internet expert.”
