Best Practices to Keep Your Internet Session Secure When Traveling Overseas

When traveling abroad, staying connected is often essential for navigation, communication, and work. However, using public Wi-Fi networks and unfamiliar internet environments can expose you to cyber threats. Follow these best practices to ensure your online safety while exploring the world.

1. Use a Reliable Virtual Private Network (VPN)

A Virtual Private Network encrypts your internet traffic, making it difficult for hackers to intercept your data. Choose a reputable VPN provider and enable it whenever you connect to the internet, especially on public Wi-Fi networks in airports, hotels, and cafes.

Tips for Choosing a VPN:

• Opt for a paid service for better reliability and security.
• Check for features like a no-logs policy, kill switch, and strong encryption.
• Verify compatibility with your devices and operating systems.

2. Avoid Public Wi-Fi When Possible

Public Wi-Fi networks are a hotspot for cybercriminals. Whenever feasible, use your mobile data or a personal hotspot to access the internet securely. Instead of incurring hefty bills for international roaming, you can get a travel eSIM to help you stay connected at affordable rates.

If You Must Use Public Wi-Fi:

• Avoid accessing sensitive accounts, such as online banking or work emails.
• Disconnect from the network when you’re not actively using it.
• Ensure the network is legitimate and not a malicious hotspot.

3. Keep Your Software Updated

Outdated software can have vulnerabilities that hackers exploit. Before your trip, update your devices, operating systems, and apps to their latest versions.

What to Update:

• Operating systems (e.g., iOS, Android, Windows, macOS)
• Browsers (e.g., Chrome, Safari, Firefox)
• Security software and antivirus tools

4. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Two-Factor Authentication adds an extra layer of security to your online accounts. Even if your password is compromised, 2FA ensures that hackers cannot access your accounts without the second authentication factor.

Common 2FA Methods:

• SMS-based codes
• Authentication apps like Google Authenticator or Authy
• Hardware keys like YubiKey

5. Use Strong and Unique Passwords

Weak or reused passwords are easy targets for hackers. Use strong, unique passwords for all your accounts and consider a password manager to keep track of them securely.

Characteristics of Strong Passwords:

• At least 12 characters long
• A mix of letters, numbers, and special characters
• Avoid common words and personal information

6. Be wary of scams and personal information that you give out

Phishing scams are common tactics used by cybercriminals to steal your personal information. Be wary of unexpected emails, messages, or pop-ups asking for sensitive information.

If you have gotten a local SIM card with a phone number for registration of online accounts, be wary about the type of information that can be accessed via that phone number. As these numbers are temporary and would be recycled, accounts associated with that phone number could possibly be accessed by the next person.

Stay safe online while traveling with a Nomad travel eSIM

By implementing these best practices, you can enjoy a safer and more secure internet experience while traveling overseas. Protecting your digital life ensures peace of mind, allowing you to focus on making memories on your journey.

Stay connected at affordable rates with a Nomad travel eSIM while abroad. Nomad offers travel eSIMs in over 190 destinations worldwide, with rates from as low as $1.10 / GB. Nomad’s eSIMs also supports hotspot capabilities, so you can stay connected on multiple devices without having to rely on public WiFi.

In the event where you run out of data, you can also simply buy an add-on. The add-on data will get activated when your first data plan runs out, so you can continue to stay connected with the same eSIM.