4 Tech Safety Tips For Summer Travel

Technology goes a long way in making travel easier these days. Whether you’re using a smartphone app to catch an Uber in a new city or a tablet to keep your kids entertained while en route to your destination, most travelers never leave home without their favorite devices. But even with all the benefits, technology can create problems for travelers that aren’t careful. That’s why we have put together this list of four tech safety reminders for your next vacation.

1. Limit Browsing on Public Wi-Fi Networks 
Public Wi-Fi can be a traveler’s best friend when it comes to streaming music, playing games, downloading a new e-book, or browsing your favorite websites. But, if you need to check your credit card statement or work email, you would be better off waiting until you can connect to a secure network. Remember, if the network is unencrypted like most public Wi-Fi networks tend to be, anyone in range of the network could tap into your activity and steal your sensitive personal data.

2. Never Announce Your Vacation on Social Media
It’s tempting to immediately post pics and let your social networks know you’re frolicking on the sandy beaches of some exotic isle, but resist. Even though Facebook calls them “friends”, not everyone who accesses your online profile is your friend. You could be divulging details that make you the perfect target for a home burglary. 

3. Pay Attention to Your Environment 
It is so easy to get caught up on your device when you are out and about on vacation. However, if you are staring at your screen trying to figure out the best place to eat, you are not paying attention to the people and things around you. According to a recent report on Smithsonian.com, injuries from people walking into telephone poles almost tripled between 2004 and 2010. Why? The answer seems obvious—distracted walkers paying more attention to their phones than the path in front of them. Pickpocket thieves also target distracted people. If you need to check your phone, take a beat and stop walking until you have all the information you need. Then proceed with eyes wide open.

4. Activate Your Phone’s Lock Screen
Losing your phone on vacation can be just as traumatic for some people as losing a wallet. By locking your phone, you at least give yourself the peace of mind of knowing that a stranger will not be able to rifle through your personal information.

Technology is meant to make your life easier. Keep these tips in mind the next time you travel to enjoy an incident-free vacation.