This is a collaborative post. 

Safety is always vital when you’re traveling. However, the focus shouldn’t only be on protecting yourself and your possessions alone. You should also be mindful of the specific vulnerabilities of traveling while carrying digital technology. Our tech helps us pass the time and look up important information, and it can generally be a very useful tool to keep on hand.

A lot of us rely on this technology, to the point that it can serve as a gateway to all manner of private, sensitive, and financial data. Here, we’re going to look at a few vital tips to ensure that you’re mindful of the risk that this technology can pose, especially if it falls into the wrong hands, and how to protect yourself and your tech.



Be mindful of thieves

While traveling, especially in busy tourist areas, theft is a real risk. Keep your devices secure by using wrist straps, lanyard cases, or anti-theft bags. These security tools make it more challenging for a thief to grab and run with your device. Always be aware of your surroundings, especially when working in public places. Try to keep valuable items in sight and avoid setting your phone, tablet, or laptop down unattended. Remaining vigilant can prevent most petty theft incidents, helping you feel secure and focused on your travels. Make it as difficult as possible for thieves to be able to steal your device and they’re a lot less likely to make the attempt. 

Be able to track your device

In case of theft, having tracking tools can be invaluable. Enable tracking features like Apple’s “Find My iPhone” or Google’s “Find My Device,” which can help you locate lost or stolen items. Some services even allow you to remotely wipe data, which can be critical if sensitive information is at risk. Also, consider device insurance plans that cover theft or loss. Having these tracking tools and contingencies in place provides an additional layer of security for both your data and peace of mind. 

Use a VPN to stay connected

While VPNs are essential for accessing work files safely, they also offer a layer of privacy when using public networks. When you’re connected to public or semi-public networks, it is possible for hackers to effectively eavesdrop on your connection, and by doing this they could steal some sensitive data. Beyond encrypting your data, VPNs can help you access online accounts that might be restricted in certain countries. Using a trusted VPN for Mac with robust privacy policies can shield your internet activity from hackers and give you a secure connection, no matter where you’re working. In general, you may want to be mindful of which networks you connect to in the first place. Some avoid connecting to public wifi altogether.

 

Avoid posting live updates on social media

This used to be the complete opposite. Remember FourSquare and checking into your locations on social media? SO WEIRD! One important but often overlooked safety measure these days is to avoid posting live updates about your location on social media. While sharing your travels in real-time can be tempting, doing so reveals your location to a wide audience, potentially increasing your vulnerability to theft or other risks. Consider waiting until you’ve left a location to share your experiences online. By being discreet, you not only protect your safety but also limit the information available to potential scammers or stalkers. What’s more, posting frequently is also an advertisement that you’ve left your home. 

 

Back-up your data

Losing your device while on the road could result in the loss of important files, so having a reliable backup strategy is essential. There are plenty of Cloud services, including both free and premium options, that can be used to store copies of crucial files. If internet reliability is a concern, consider carrying an external hard drive with automatic backup capabilities. By backing up your files regularly, you ensure that any data loss won’t impact your work or personal information. 

Anticipate more phishing attempts

Traveling often exposes you to an increased number of phishing attempts, as scammers may try to exploit travel-related vulnerabilities. Be cautious when opening unfamiliar emails or clicking on links, especially if they claim to be from travel or booking companies. Regularly monitor your accounts for any suspicious activity and avoid accessing sensitive information over public networks without a VPN. Developing a critical eye for phishing attempts can help you maintain your digital safety while traveling. Honestly, if unsure - just delete and report it. If it's from someone who knows you, they'll have other ways to contact you.

Traveling with your digital tech does carry some degree of risk, but there’s plenty that you can do to ensure that you mitigate it. This way, you don’t have to live with worry simply because you’re traveling with your phone on your person. 

Are there other tactics you use to mitigate risks? What are they? Share in the comments below.