On the Road to Security
4 Essential Cyber Tips for Travelers
In a world where cyber-attacks are becoming all too common, the recent incident involving Omni Hotels & Resorts serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities we face. With their entire IT system taken offline due to a malicious cyber-attack, the hotel chain grappled with the fallout, from disrupted operations to potential financial losses reaching into the millions. While the exact nature of the attack remains undisclosed, speculations point towards a ransomware assault, echoing the plight of MGM in Las Vegas several months prior.
Amidst the chaos, it’s crucial to recognize the broader risks associated with cyber threats, especially when traveling. Each time you connect to an unsecured network, whether it’s in a hotel lobby, a bustling coffee shop, or an airport lounge, you’re potentially exposing your devices to nefarious actors. To mitigate these risks and ensure your safety on the road, consider the following tips:
- Avoid Public Wi-Fi Networks
If a network is compromised and you connect to it, you could be giving hackers access to your devices. Resist the temptation to connect to public Wi-Fi hotspots, as they’re often prime targets for hackers seeking to intercept sensitive data. By refraining from connecting to these networks, you can safeguard your personal information and minimize the risk of unauthorized access to your devices.
- Disable Auto-Connect Features
Turn off auto-connect settings on your devices to prevent them from automatically joining unknown Wi-Fi networks. Hackers may exploit this feature by creating fake networks, luring unsuspecting users into unwittingly exposing their data. Taking control of your device’s connectivity settings adds an extra layer of defense against potential threats.
- Harness Your Phone’s Hotspot
If possible, utilize your smartphone’s hotspot functionality to create a secure internet connection for your devices. This feature, readily available on most smartphones, enables you to establish a private network, shielding your data from prying eyes. If your device lacks this capability or using a hotspot is not feasible, consider the next tip.
- Use a VPN for Public Wi-Fi
If using a personal hotspot is not an option, consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks. A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, making it much harder for hackers to intercept and decipher your data. This added layer of security can protect your sensitive information from being stolen while using public Wi-Fi.
Pro tip: Choose a reputable VPN provider with strong encryption reviews and a commitment to privacy. And don’t forget to keep your VPN software updated for the latest security enhancements.
These precautions are not only pertinent for individual travelers but also for businesses whose employees frequently traverse the globe. Equipping work devices with professional-grade cybersecurity tools is imperative to prevent data breaches that could jeopardize company operations and reputation.
The final lesson in this terrible incident that all Albuquerque business owners need to understand: No matter the size of the company, you can still be the victim of a cyber-attack. The Omni chain, which boasts over 50 properties nationwide, would likely have a large budget to defend itself from cyber-attacks and yet still fall victim to hackers. No system is 100% impenetrable, but small business owners who don’t have any security measures in place are putting a big red target on their backs.
If you’re uncertain about your company’s security measures, we have a solution: a complimentary 10-minute phone consultation with one of our cybersecurity experts. Let’s delve into your specific situation together. You might discover your strong security stance, giving you peace of mind, or identify areas of vulnerability, enabling you to make necessary adjustments and enhance your protection. It’s a win-win situation either way!
Take proactive steps to safeguard your business and personal information. Contact our office at 505-792-2375 or visit us here to schedule your consultation today.
Safe travels and secure connections await!