When traveling internationally, remember that your mobile phone and other personal communications devices transmit and store your personal information, which is as valuable as the contents of your suitcase, and possibly more so.
Before you go
Take proactive steps to secure your devices and your personally identifiable information (such as your name, address, date of birth and Social Security Number) before you travel. Leave at home any electronic equipment you don't need during your travel. And, if you take it, protect it. Be sure to:
- Back up your electronic files.
- Remove sensitive data.
- Install strong passwords.
- Confirm antivirus software is up-to-date.
While traveling
Be vigilant about your surroundings and where and how you use your devices. Make sure to:
- Keep your devices secure in public places such as airports, hotels and restaurants.
- Take care that nobody is trying to steal information from you by spying on your device screen while it's in use.
- Consider using a privacy screen on your laptop to restrict visibility.
Be cautious while using public Wi-Fi
Some threats – device theft, for example – are obvious. Others, though, will be invisible, such as data thieves trying to pick off passwords to compromise your personally identifiable information or access your accounts. You may be especially vulnerable in locations with public Wi-Fi, including internet cafes, coffee shops, bookstores, travel agencies, clinics, libraries, airports and hotels. Some helpful tips:
- Do not use the same passwords or PIN numbers abroad that you use in the United States.
- Do not use the public Wi-Fi to make online purchases or access bank accounts.
- When logging into any public network, shut off your phone's auto-join function.
- While using a pubic Wi-Fi network, periodically adjust your phone settings to disconnect from the network, then log back in again.
- Try purposely logging onto the public Wi-Fi using the wrong password. If you can get on anyway, that's a sign that the network is not secure.
Remember also to avoid using public equipment – such as phones, computers and fax machines – for sensitive communications.
When you get home
Electronics and devices used or obtained abroad can be compromised. Your mobile phone and other electronic devices may be vulnerable to malware if you connect with local networks abroad. Update your security software and change your passwords on all devices on your return home.
Additional resources
For more tips, check the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Computer Emergency Readiness Team webpage.
Laws and policies regarding online security and privacy differ in other countries. While in a foreign country, you are subject to local laws. The State Department website has travel safety information for every country in the world.
Printable Version
Cybersecurity Tips for International Travelers (pdf)
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