Avoiding online security threats during holiday travel
As consumers access the internet from a variety of new locations and devices during the holiday travel season, it is important to understand the unique online security concerns that come with this mobility.
To begin, Extreme Tech writer David Cardinal recommends establishing a solid first line of defense by password protecting all devices. Instead of taking the easy road and using the same credentials for all laptops, smartphones and tablets, it is important to add another layer of defense with the help of a password organizer tool that generates a new code for each device or account.
Misplacing a BlackBerry in the airport security line is bad enough, but leaving it open to attack or guarding it with a stock password could spell additional danger.
The next threat that must be addressed is the use of public computers and public internet connections. Although they may be convenient - and at times the only available option - they can be a breeding ground for a number of nasty online security threats.
Cardinal advises users to avoid accessing personal information unless it is absolutely critical. The risk of checking work email at an internet cafe while on vacation far outweighs the advantages.
