Vacation Cybersecurity: 1 in 10 People Take No Precautions
TL;DR
A significant portion of vacationers worry about cyber threats but fail to take adequate precautions. About 10% take no measures at all, highlighting the need for better cybersecurity awareness and practices during travel.
Vacation Cybersecurity: A Growing Concern
This year, spring break vacationers are packing more than just flip-flops and sunglasses—they’re also carrying cybersecurity concerns. According to new research from Malwarebytes, 52% of people worry about being scammed while traveling, and 40% are concerned about family members sharing trip details online. While most plan to update their security software (63%) and back up their data (53%), roughly 10% admitted they take no precautions to protect their security or privacy during vacations.
A Patchwork Approach to Cybersecurity
The findings reveal that the public’s approach to cybersecurity is inconsistent. While some best practices are followed, others are ignored, and certain behaviors carry significant risks. Malwarebytes conducted this research via the Alchemer Survey Platform, highlighting several key insights:
- Worries and Precautions:
- 52% worry about travel scams.
- 20% don’t think about protecting data while traveling.
- 38% book travel through general searches, risking malvertising.
- 66% use between one and six travel apps.
- 10% take no cybersecurity measures.
- 53% refuse to bring a laptop, but only 1% leave their smartphone behind.
Risky Behaviors on Vacation
Unlike organizations that face increased risks during low staffing, individual travelers engage in various risky behaviors:
- General Search Risks: 38% of people book travel through general online searches, which can be manipulated by malvertising. Cybercriminals create fake websites mimicking popular services to trick users into downloading malware or sharing sensitive information.
- Safer Booking Options: Booking directly with airlines or hotels is safer. Using travel agents can also provide additional safeguards.
- App Risks: With the prevalence of travel apps, the risk of downloading fake apps increases. Android phishing apps posed a significant threat, with Malwarebytes detecting 22,800 such apps last year.
Online Behaviors and Risks
During vacations, people engage in various online activities that could be risky:
- QR Codes: 25% scan QR codes, which can lead to malicious websites.
- Financial Management: 33% log into financial institutions, which is generally secure but can be risky on public Wi-Fi.
- VPN Use: 41% use VPNs for added security on public Wi-Fi.
Essential Cybersecurity Tips for Travelers
While cybersecurity might not be a top priority for vacationers, it is crucial. Here are some tips to stay safe:
- Backup Data: Backup your data before traveling to prevent loss in case of device theft or loss.
- Enable “Find My” Features: Turn on device tracking features to locate lost or stolen devices.
- Use Cybersecurity Tools: Protect devices with antivirus software and cybersecurity tools to warn against dangerous websites.
- Update Software: Ensure all devices are running the latest software versions to prevent known vulnerabilities.
- Use Password Managers and 2FA: Protect sensitive accounts with unique passwords and two-factor authentication.
- Consider a VPN: Use a VPN for secure browsing, especially for sensitive online activities.
Conclusion
Cybersecurity is a critical aspect of travel preparation that often gets overlooked. By taking simple precautions, travelers can significantly reduce their risk of falling victim to cyber threats. As technology continues to evolve, so do the methods used by cybercriminals, making it essential to stay informed and proactive in protecting personal data.
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Additional Resources
For further insights, check:
- Malvertising: This cyberthreat isn’t on the dark web—it’s on Google
- Phishing evolves beyond email to become the latest Android app threat