Forget about pickpockets and lost luggage. The biggest risk to your next vacation is hiding online.
“Anyone can be a potential victim,” warns Seth Ruden, director of global consulting at BioCatch, a biometrics company. “But the commons are most likely targets, because rewards, airline miles and other payment data stored in accounts can be lucrative and easily monetized. “
People are more concerned than ever about cybersecurity. In fact, a recent Travelers Insurance study found that 62% of respondents were concerned about online security, the highest in 11 years. (Travelers have asked business owners, but other surveys show their concerns are reflected more broadly. )
There are a range of cyber threats facing travelers, from phishing scams designed to steal personal information to fake travel websites and rental listings that leave victims stranded and financially drained. Check Point Research, a cybersecurity firm, says in 2024, says 1 in every 33 newly registered vacation-related domains were malicious or suspicious. This category included phishing sites imitating Booking.com, Kayak, and other popular travel platforms, according to the company.
“Malicious actors now have the ability to identify and attack mobile devices, send malicious code to the device, access a device to track its location, turn on your device’s microphone, and intercept messages,” says Frank Harrison, regional security director for the Americas. in Global Travel Protection. ” Adopting cybersecurity measures aimed at mitigating threats is imperative for travelers and their data. “
Abhishek Karnik, head of risk studies at McAfee, says there are two places where travelers are vulnerable: when booking and when traveling.
“Travelers will have to remain vigilant,” he said.
But how?
As the generation continues to become more mainstreamed into our experiences, the threat of cyber attacks when booking online or accessing unsecured networks in foreign countries is a genuine concern.
Peter Hamdy, Managing Director of Auckland
“With my extensive experience in the industry, I can tell you that one of the biggest risks will likely be the evolving cybersecurity risk landscape,” he says.
So go over your online hygiene, i. e. , replace your passwords frequently, allow two-factor authentication, don’t click on any phishing links, and never, ever, give out your password or passwords. access to a third party. You can also use an insurance app to stay safe.
A virtual personal network (VPN) can keep you safe, says Joe Cronin, CEO of International Citizens Insurance.
“Travelers are looking for free Wi-Fi, but many public networks you can connect to are not secure and put your personal data at risk,” he explains. “I suggest travelers use a VPN to protect their phones or laptops when using public Wi-Fi. “
One of the most common social engineering threats while traveling is the impersonation scam. Attackers may pose as hotel staff, tour guides, or even fellow travelers to gain access to personal information on your devices, according to Karnik, the McAfee security expert.
“Always find out the identity of Americans before sharing sensitive data or handing over items,” he adds.
Phishing (sending emails pretending to be a reputable company to trick you into revealing non-public data) is becoming more and more sophisticated.
“Traveling is a wonderful opportunity for an identity theft campaign,” warns Rishika Desai, a risk researcher at predictive security firm BforeAI. “Many are in favor of a smart deal at a time when costs are high. And cybercriminals impersonate valid, well-known brands. “
The solution? Never click on an email or stay on a link from a source you don’t recognize. Always go directly to the company’s online page to review any offers.
Artificial intelligence has provided cybercriminals with the equipment they need to temporarily attack even the most savvy travelers.
“AI can create attractive websites, create more grassy language, and even generate fake reviews,” says Cache Merrill, CEO of Zibtek, a software developer. “Everything is much more valid with AI-based technology, and other people get caught in the trap. “
Although AI makes it even more difficult for users to distinguish valid offers from scams, synthetic intelligence is not perfect. With a little practice, you’ll be able to discern fake AI-generated text, photos, videos, and offers. Or you can just take a shortcut: If an online offer turns out to be too clever to be true, it probably is.
Perhaps the best advice is to leave nothing to chance. Unfortunately, travelers are just winging it, according to the latest research. Only about two in 10 business travelers say they are required to take a training course on how to improve cybersecurity, according to a recent poll by Opinium Research.
“Do your homework and make sure you have a plan in place for any potential issues that may arise,” says John Gobbels, lead operations director for Medjet’s air medical transportation and travel safety program. “It’s more stressful in the moment and less difficult if you have backup plans or systems in place. “
There’s also cybersecurity support, which protects travelers against unforeseen events. For example, BOXX Insurance and World Travel Protection recently launched cybersecurity assistance for business travelers that monitors emerging digital risks and helps them predict and prevent potential threats and scams. This type of support may soon be available to leisure travelers as well.
The golden rule when traveling has been to expect the unexpected. By 2025, that means waiting and preparing for the growing risk of cybercrime. By doing this, you can ensure that your adventures are explained through joyful discoveries and not virtual disasters.
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