IT Security on Vacation: How to Protect Your Devices and Data from Hackers
Vacation is a time for relaxation, rest, and disconnecting from daily obligations - but unfortunately, not a time to disconnect from digital security. Cyber threats often increase during holiday periods, as users become less vigilant, their attention shifts elsewhere, and their devices connect to unknown networks - often without adequate protection. That’s why it’s crucial to maintain basic cybersecurity practices even while on vacation to prevent data loss, identity theft, or system breaches.
Avoid Public Wi-Fi Networks
Whether you're in a hotel, campsite, airport, or café - public wireless networks are among the most common attack vectors for cybercriminals. These networks are often poorly secured, with no encryption or simple passwords shared with all guests. Attackers can easily intercept data you send or receive - especially sensitive information such as passwords, credit card numbers, or login credentials.
If possible, avoid using public Wi-Fi altogether. Instead, rely on mobile data or create a personal hotspot using your smartphone.
If You Must Use Public Wi-Fi: Always Use a VPN
If you cannot avoid using a public network, make sure to use a personal VPN (Virtual Private Network). A VPN creates an encrypted tunnel between your device and the internet, ensuring that even if someone intercepts the traffic, they won’t be able to read its contents. There are many solutions available - ranging from free options to premium VPN services that offer better speed and reliability.
Avoid Public USB Charging Stations
In recent years, “juice jacking” attacks have become more common. In such cases, an attacker uses a compromised USB charging station—often located at airports, hotels, or malls - to access your device or install malicious software on it.
Instead, use your own adapter and a power outlet, or carry a portable power bank with you. If you absolutely must use a USB port, consider using a USB data blocker adapter, which allows power transfer only, without any data exchange.
Keep Devices With You and Locked
Whether it’s a laptop, phone, or tablet - your devices should always be with you or securely stored. Enable screen lock using a strong password, PIN code, or biometric authentication (fingerprint or facial recognition). In case of theft, this will make unauthorized access much harder.
It’s also recommended to enable the “Find My Device” feature, which allows you to track or remotely wipe your device if it gets lost or stolen.
Regularly Update Operating Systems and Apps
Before going on vacation, make sure your operating systems and applications are fully updated. Security updates often fix known vulnerabilities that attackers could exploit. The same applies to your antivirus software - ensure you have the latest version with up-to-date definitions.
Disable Auto-Connecting to Wi-Fi Networks
Many devices are set by default to automatically connect to known networks. This setting can be dangerous, as an attacker could set up a “Evil Twin” network with the same name as a previous connection, causing your device to connect to it without your knowledge.
In your Wi-Fi settings, disable auto-connect and connect only manually to verified and trusted networks.
Don’t Share Personal Information via Unknown Websites
During vacation, fake websites offering “discounts,” “deals,” or “vouchers” often emerge, aiming to collect your personal data. Before entering personal information, credit card numbers, or passwords online, verify the site’s security (look for https:// and a valid certificate), and make sure it’s a trusted domain.
If you receive emails or messages from unknown sources urging immediate action or to click a link, always verify their legitimacy - such messages are usually phishing attempts.
Even while on vacation, don’t neglect cybersecurity. By following the tips outlined above, you can greatly reduce the risk of cyber threats and ensure that your break is truly worry-free - not just physically, but digitally as well.
Smartphones, tablets, and laptops hold more sensitive data than many safes - treat them as you would cash or personal documents.