Did you know that when you travel, your data can potentially be at risk?
When preparing for a trip, most people will put together a list of items to help them get around safely. This could include a phone charger, passport, maps, and guidebooks. However, there’s another critical thing you might not have considered. One of the most important items to include when traveling is a VPN.
Oftentimes when you travel, you may rely on public networks, hotel Wi-Fi, or other access points to your data. These access points can be filled with potential threats that seek to expose your data. A task as simple as browsing the web can put you at risk!
In this article, we will unpack some of the common risks that come with traveling, and how using a VPN for travel can help you stay safe while away from home.
Traveling can put your data at risk. Some of the most common issues are unsecured public Wi-Fi networks, geo-restrictions during international travels to a foreign country, and increased exposure to phishing scams and malware. When connecting to public Wi-Fi networks in airports, hotels, or coffee shops, your data transmission and online activity may be intercepted by cybercriminals if the network is not adequately secured.
VPN Providers have helped offer an extra layer of protection for user data with a secure connection. With so many bad actors wanting to access your data, using travel VPN can help make sure you have the online security that is offered from private internet access from your home internet service provider.
Using public Wi-Fi networks poses several risks to the security of your data. Public Wi-Fi networks are often unsecured networks or have weak encryption protocols, making it easier for cybercriminals to intercept and eavesdrop on your online activities. Hackers can set up rogue Wi-Fi hotspots with names similar to legitimate ones, tricking users into connecting to them and exposing their data to unauthorized access.
Another common threat on public Wi-Fi networks are man-in-the-middle attacks, where attackers intercept communication between devices and websites, allowing them to steal sensitive information such as passwords, usernames, and credit card details.
Another issue is that public Wi-Fi networks are frequented by a large number of users, increasing the risk of malware infections and other cyber threats. Malicious actors can exploit vulnerabilities in devices connected to the network, distributing malware and conducting phishing attacks to steal personal information.
Even seemingly harmless activities, such as checking emails or browsing social media, can expose you to security risks on public Wi-Fi networks. Additionally, many public Wi-Fi networks lack basic security measures like network segmentation and firewall protection, further exacerbating the risk of unauthorized access and data breaches.
To mitigate the risks associated with public Wi-Fi networks, it’s crucial to take proactive security measures.
Use remote access virtual private network (VPN) services to encrypt your internet traffic and protect your data from interception. Avoid accessing sensitive information, such as online banking or entering passwords, when connected to public Wi-Fi networks. Keep your devices and software updated with the latest security patches, and use antivirus software to detect and prevent malware infections.
By exercising caution and implementing robust security practices, you can reduce the likelihood of falling victim to cyber threats while using public Wi-Fi networks.
Geo-restrictions pose significant risks to internet users, limiting access to online content and services based on their geographic location. These restrictions are often enforced by websites, streaming platforms, and online services due to licensing agreements, copyright laws, or regional regulations. As a result, users in certain locations may encounter barriers when attempting to access content or services that are only available in other regions, leading to a fragmented online experience.
Imagine trying to access a streaming service overseas and not being able to get through!
While popular streaming platforms may be available overseas, the available content can be very different depending on what country you’re in because of geographic-based restrictions. A VPN allows you to access major streaming services and have unrestricted streaming of your favorite shows.
This can be frustrating for users who are unable to access desired content or services, potentially driving them to seek alternative, less secure means of circumventing geo-restrictions.
Geo restrictions can create inequalities in access to information and resources, perpetuating digital divides between different regions and populations. Individuals in restricted countries with strict geo restrictions may face limited access to educational resources, news outlets, or online tools essential for professional development.
This lack of access not only hinders opportunities for learning and growth but also reinforces disparities in digital literacy and socioeconomic status. Geo-restrictions can hinder cross-border communication and collaboration, impeding global connectivity and innovation in an increasingly interconnected world.
From a cybersecurity standpoint, circumventing geo-restrictions using a proxy, VPN connection, or other methods may expose users to additional risks. Users may inadvertently download malicious software or fall victim to phishing scams when attempting to access restricted content through unauthorized channels.
Additionally, using VPNs or proxies to bypass geo restrictions may violate terms of service agreements and lead to legal consequences.
While geo restrictions may serve legitimate purposes such as protecting intellectual property rights, it’s essential to consider their broader implications and explore alternative approaches to promoting access to online content and services in a more equitable and secure manner.
Traveling overseas can increase the risk of identity theft and fraud due to various factors such as unfamiliar environments, reliance on unfamiliar services, and exposure to new threats.
For instance, tourists may be targeted by opportunistic thieves who steal personal belongings containing sensitive information, such as passports, credit cards, and smartphones. Additionally, travelers often rely on public Wi-Fi networks and unsecured internet connections while abroad, increasing the likelihood of data interception and unauthorized access to personal information by cybercriminals.
Moreover, tourists may encounter unfamiliar payment systems, currency exchange processes, and language barriers, making it easier for fraudsters to exploit vulnerabilities and deceive them into disclosing sensitive financial information or falling victim to scams.
Furthermore, tourists are often unfamiliar with local customs, regulations, and safety practices, making them more susceptible to social engineering tactics and confidence scams.
Fraudsters may pose as trusted individuals, authorities, or service providers, exploiting tourists’ lack of familiarity with local norms and leveraging their trust to obtain sensitive information or commit financial fraud. Additionally, tourists may inadvertently reveal personal information or engage in risky behaviors, such as sharing travel plans on social media or using unsecured ATMs, which can increase the likelihood of identity theft and fraud.
Therefore, travelers must remain vigilant, exercise caution when sharing personal information or conducting financial transactions, and take proactive measures to safeguard their identities and financial assets while traveling overseas.
While traveling, individuals may encounter online censorship imposed by the government or local authorities of the country they are visiting. International travels to countries that enforce online censorship can restrict access to certain websites, social media platforms, or online content deemed objectionable or politically sensitive by the authorities.
This can significantly limit travelers’ ability to access information, communicate freely, and engage in online activities, impacting their overall digital experience and freedom of expression.
Additionally, travelers may face challenges accessing essential services and resources, such as email, banking, or navigation apps, which can disrupt their travel plans and hinder their ability to stay connected and informed.
Online censorship can have broader implications for travelers’ privacy and security. Censorship measures may involve surveillance and monitoring of internet activities, leading to the collection of personal data and potential privacy violations.
Travelers may inadvertently expose sensitive information or face repercussions for engaging in activities deemed subversive or prohibited by the authorities. Furthermore, circumventing online censorship using virtual private networks (VPNs) or other methods may attract attention from authorities and expose travelers to legal risks or penalties.
Therefore, travelers must exercise caution when accessing the internet while abroad, familiarize themselves with local regulations and restrictions, and take proactive measures to protect their privacy and security in an environment where online censorship may be prevalent.
The risk of location tracking while traveling overseas is a significant concern due to the potential for invasion of privacy and security vulnerabilities. Mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets, constantly transmit location data through GPS, Wi-Fi, and cellular networks, enabling service providers and third-party applications to track users’ movements in real time.
While location tracking can offer convenience and personalized services, it also poses risks, especially in unfamiliar environments. Malicious actors, including cybercriminals and government agencies, may exploit location data to monitor individuals’ activities, track their whereabouts, and gather sensitive information without their consent.
Sharing location data with untrusted or unauthorized parties can increase the risk of stalking, harassment, identity theft, and physical security threats.
So, travelers must be cautious when sharing location information, review privacy settings on their devices and applications, and consider using tools and techniques to minimize location tracking risks while traveling overseas.
Now that you understand the benefits of using a business VPN while traveling, let’s talk about some of the cases where you would use it.
Traveling is expensive! Between the cost of flights, lodging, and food, these quickly add up. But did you know that your geographic location when booking flights and hotels can impact how much you pay?
A VPN will help disguise your IP Address and offers secure connection to a remote server that may have better pricing because of their geographic region. If you have a tight travel budget, try utilizing a VPN while you look at prices. Maybe that dream trip to Saudi Arabia or Hong Kong became a little more affordable when using your VPN for travel!
Accessing new networks can add a whole new level of frustration, whether it’s limiting internet traffic, unsecure connections, or too many users, everyone’s been in a situation with slow internet connection speeds.
Using VPNs for travel can help with connection speeds. A VPN allows you to have multiple simultaneous connections without utilizing too much bandwidth on the public network. A VPN allows you to have stable connections to a network of servers with multiple server locations. The benefit here is that the bandwidth is spread across multiple servers, the internet service provider can’t decrease your internet speed, and you’re free to access information without issue.
A VPN offers robust threat protection. While dealing with slow internet and inability to access certain services, one of the most important benefits of a VPN for travel are the advanced protection features.
Using a VPN for travel will disguise your actual IP address so bad actors can’t monitor your online activity and helps protect your personal data and maintain online privacy with an additional layer of security.
When traveling, sometimes you need to access your home network and devices that are still connected to your internet service provider. A VPN allows you to remotely access your server with simultaneous connections to your network, even from outside of your home. A VPN connection allows a reliable network connection to your home network without worry.
Many countries don’t have the same freedoms of speech or access to online information. When traveling to heavily censored countries, there may be government restrictions or location restrictions on what you are able to access.
Plan ahead when traveling to your destination country to know if where you are traveling is one of the restrictive countries where a VPN may be necessary. Many of these heavily censored countries will monitor your online activity and restrict what you are able to access if you utilize internet services without a VPN.
When using a VPN for travel, the VPN creates a private tunnel that allows you to access your data without being restricted by censorship in countries that don’t have the same privileges. Being able to securely access your social media and communication methods can help you have worry-free travel.
In today’s age, a VPN has become a vital tool that allows you to have online protection and exercise your internet freedoms, regardless of where you are.
Perimeter81 offers a robust platform for secure VPN access. Don’t worry any longer about accessing public Wi-Fi hotspots when traveling to new countries. Our server networks allow for a reliable network connection and help protect against privacy concerns that most travelers don’t even worry about.
With so many options for VPNs for travel, partnering with Perimeter81 will help increase your online security with a VPN connection that keeps your data secured.
Reach out to Perimeter81 today so we can help you keep your data secure!
