Travel season is almost here!
We know that traveling can be an exciting and adventurous experience, but it's important to stay cybersafe along the way.
Whether you're travelling for leisure, to attend a conference or for research, (cyber)secure your journey with the following tips:
Before you go, prep your devices!
- Lock your devices when they’re not in use, and never leave them unattended.
- Ensure that your operating systems and apps are up to date.
- Keep a backup of photos, contacts, and other important data.
- Use two-factor-authentication (2FA) on all your accounts that offer it.
- About 2FA
- Consider using an authenticator app, such as Microsoft Authenticator, to receive 2FA codes. This offers better security than getting a code through a text message and is easier to use. Find out more in FAQs for two-factor authentication (2FA).
- Whenever possible, make sure your devices are encrypted. Most new devices now offer this feature, and it protects your data in the event your laptop, phone or tablet is lost or stolen.
- Most laptops provided by IT Services are encrypted by default.
- If you have a McGill-managed computer, contact the IT Service Desk or your local IT administrator to find out if they can enable FDE for you.
- You can also set up encryption on your personal devices.
- Make sure that all your devices and accounts are protected with strong passwords.
- It's essential to have internet security software installed that protects you from viruses, malware, and other security threats.
Guard your accounts and privacy while on the go:
- Public WiFi is convenient, but it can be risky since anyone can potentially access it. Cybercriminals can use public WiFi to intercept your online activity, steal your personal information, and even inject malware into your device. To protect yourself:
- Avoid using public WiFi to access sensitive information, such as online banking or making payments with credit card.
- Before you access your email, accounts, or other online services, connect to a Virtual Private Network (VPN). A VPN encrypts your connection and keeps your data private.
Stay Alert:
- Always be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
- Do not use ATMs or point-of-sale (POS) machines that look suspicious. Check out these tips for how to spot signs of tampering.
- Watch out for people “shoulder surfing” behind you. They may just be just curious, but this is also how attackers steal credentials and credit card information.
Share wisely:
While it's natural to want to share your travel experiences with friends and family, be cautious about what you share on social media. Avoid posting your exact location and travel plans, as it can make you an easy target for cybercriminals.
Additional tips:
- Helpful articles from the Government of Canada:
By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure that your journey is not only safe and secure but also fun and memorable! Safe travels!