How can a vacation photo get you robbed? Do this to stay safe

The vacations are great. But unfortunate events can spoil the fun very quickly. There always was a lot of danger waiting for tourists. And with the evolution of technologies, the number of threats has significantly risen. Today you need to care not only about your belongings but your data as well. And the smallest misstep can lead you to lose valuable sensitive information and, consequently, your money or personal things.

However, it’s quite easy to avoid predicaments by doing these simple things.

1. Book tickets and places to stay from trustworthy websites

We all know about Airbnb, Booking, and a couple of other services. They’re popular and, therefore, safe to trust. Stick to them and don’t get tempted by lower prices on some unknown and sites that feel fishy. Remember that unreasonably low prices are the most popular way malefactors trick people.

It’s not only the money for the hotel or ticket you’re risking to lose using suspicious services. Since you provide the system with your credit card data, you basically give thieves access to your funds. That’s why you should use only reputable websites when planning your travel.

2. Set up passwords on your devices

Almost everyone has passcodes on their phones today. But if you don’t like having your devices locked, you should set up the passwords at least for your vacation. Then if your phone gets lost or stolen, your data stored on the device will be more protected. It’s not the ultimate way to safeguard your information, but the password will make things for the thief more complicated, and you will have some time to log out of vital apps remotely.

3. Stick to password-protected WiFi networks

Of course, there is no guarantee you will stay safe when connected to such hotspots. Still, it’s more secure than using a completely open WiFi. But actually, try to stick to the mobile data for as long as you can because public WiFi networks are never safe. Public routers rarely get updates and security maintenance. Thus, once connected to the wireless network in a cafe, airport, hotel, or any other public place, you expose your device to hackers.

4. Use a VPN

If you have no other choice but to connect to the public WiFi, use a VPN. iNinja will keep you safe for free by rerouting your connection through the remote server. This hides your authentic IP address and makes it impossible for hackers to see your device and crawl into it. iNinja is totally effortless to install, and it’s compatible with all platforms and gadgets. Therefore, there is no reason for you to neglect the necessity of a VPN.

5. Try not to broadcast your vacation

Thieves are smart. And if several years ago they had to go the extra mile to understand if there is someone at home, today all they need to do is to follow the social media of the owner of that house. That’s why you should stay quiet about your travel even though it is so tempting to share all the experience right away. Better keep all the photos on your phone and then post them once you get home.

But if you decide to share the content, don’t be too specific about your location. It’s enough to just tell people the city or even the country you’re in. Thieves can hunt for your belongings, too. And you will make it easier for them if you tell your precise locations.

6. Check the activity of your accounts

Almost all messengers and social media allow you to see the devices from which your account was accessed. Check this information once in a while to spot the suspicious activity right away. If you see an unknown device, you should deny it access and change your password.

Additionally, set up two-factor authentication for all your accounts, especially banking ones. It will make things much more difficult for malefactors.

7. Use a hotel safe for your devices

Avoid leaving your gadgets laying around in your hotel room - put them in the safe instead. It’s not about them getting stolen, because hotel staff rarely does that. But it’s about them getting used with malicious intentions. It’s much more secure to use a safe and enjoy your stay with greater peace of mind.

These rules are very simple to follow, and they will help you to stay protected and calm during your vacation. Don’t forget to install iNinja VPN before leaving for your travel, especially if you’re heading to countries where VPNs are not allowed - China, for example. Once you’re there you won’t be able to download and install the software. So do that in advance, and you will be safeguarded no matter what.