When my husband and I were on the very long flight last year, he leaned forward and asked: “I want to check our Morgan Stanley account. You think it’s good to do that through Wi-Fi of the plane? “
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How did we live in an airplane without WiFi? Oh yes, we read magazines! Sorry to bring bad news, but WiFi is not as protected as we hope. Don’t fear. I have some tips for protecting yourself and surfing safely in the air.
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In the air
Hackers use all kinds of sneaky tactics to hijack your privacy during the flight. One thing in their favor: VPNs fall into the air more often than on the ground. (More about that below.)
Without that protection layer, use cyber criminals Wi-Fi from the same airline can easily access your devices, gain access to your information and spread malware.
Here are a few tips for surfing the internet safely from the air. (Istock)
“S” for security: Only visit encrypted websites: websites that start with ‘https’ (that ‘s’ is important!). In general, this prevents a hacker from viewing your activities on a certain site, such as the password or the credit card number that you have entered.
Watch out for AirDrop: Keyloggers keep track of everything you type, and criminals are happy to pass them on using the AirDrop function of Apple. Do not accept drops of strangers during the flight. Steps here to disable or limit AirDrop If you need help.
Name game: Scammers can make with almost fake WiFi networks identical names for the airline. If you are not careful, you can connect to a copycat network instead of the legitimate network.
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A towering safety
I know you’re not going to completely skip the WiFi. That’s okay, just be wise with it.
Update everything: Make sure that your phone, computer, tablet, smartwatch and other connected devices have the latest software before you set off. Step here for Windows, Mac, iPhone and Android. Updates often contain critical security patches that offer protection against the new threats. Also don’t forget to update your apps.
Add a layer of security: A Virtual Private Network (VPN) codes your internet connection. Call in your VPN before gaining access to something sensitive, such as your e-mail, internet banking or store accounts. Check the status again to ensure that your connection is actively protected. It must be displayed as ‘connected’ or ‘secured’.
Although VPNs are an easy way to protect your internet connection from the ground, they are often a lot spiceful (and in turn less effective) when you fly. (Istock)
Check names. If you notice multiple Wi-Fi networks with similar names, contact the staff of the airline and confirm which is the right one.
Use 2FA: For every account to which is linked financial information Or personal data, two -factor authentication is a must. This adds an additional layer of security by requiring a second verification step, such as a code that is sent to your phone or e-mail after you have entered your password. Set this to all accounts related to your finances to reduce the risk of unauthorized access.
Secure your devices. Invest in antivirus and malware protection software and keep your devices securely securely. Do not leave your phone, tablet or laptop unattended, not even for a moment.
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Stop watching. Get one privacy screen For your laptop to prevent shoulder spy in the neighborhood.
Bonus: Do not post photos of your entry card or other travel documents
You are excited and wait for the plane. What can it hurt to post a photo of your entry card? A lot. Your full legal name, ticket number and passenger name are stated on the entry cards. With that six -digit code plus your last name, everyone has online access to your booking details.
The same applies to your driver’s license, passport, visa or other identification documents. Thieves keep an eye on every detail that they can use.
Save these photos on your phone before going on vacation. Scroll to No. 3. You will thank me if something is missing.
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