Be mindful of cybersecurity even during your holidays

01.07.2022 - In July, the summer holiday season is just around the corner for many of us. But especially during these weeks, there are many things to bear in mind when it comes to cybersecurity, be it when making bookings, surfing when you are out and about or correct social media conduct. One thing is clear: cybercriminals do not take holidays.

Watch out when booking!

If while searching online you discover a stunning resort, right on the beach, at an unbeatable price, remember that offers like that are usually too good to be true and you should be careful.

Book your stay abroad on trustworthy platforms or, if possible, directly with the airline or hotel or via a travel agency.
Verify that the flight and accommodation exist by looking at the website's "About us" section.
Check the user reviews.
Only use secure payment sites. The prefix "https" indicates that a website is secure.

Before you leave:

Your device could be lost or stolen while on holiday.

Back up your data before you leave.

The time has finally come!

You are excited and looking forward to your holidays, and would like to tell the whole world. As tempting as it may be to share your excitement with your social media friends, it is also dangerous. It is not just your friends, but also criminals, who will know that you will not be at home for a while.

Refrain from notifying people about your holidays on social media.
Check your privacy settings. Keep your account private.
Turn off location services.

You will most likely take several mobile devices such as a laptop or smartphone with you when going abroad. To protect your digital life and thus your digital devices, take some precautions before you leave.

Ask your network operator whether your technology also works abroad and what costs are associated with it.
Your regular streaming services (e.g. BBC iPlayer and Netflix) and online stores (e.g. iTunes, Google Play) may not work abroad. Do not use unofficial streaming sites, as they might not be trustworthy. Download films and books before you leave.
Make sure that your smartphone, tablet or laptop always has the latest version of the operating system installed and that your apps are up to date.

During your trip

You could come across various digital stumbling blocks during your stay abroad as well. We have put together some tips to ensure that you don't come a cropper.

Keep in mind that there may be very high roaming charges (connection costs). If possible, buy a data package from your service provider.
When using public WiFi networks (e.g. in hotels or at railway stations), there is a risk that unauthorised third parties can read or even access your data. If possible, use trustworthy WiFi networks that are password protected.
Many public buildings such as airports or railway stations offer USB charging stations. The use of publicly accessible USB charging stations also carries the risk of your devices being infected. Use your own chargers.
To prevent these dangers when charging, it is best to use a power bank, i.e. a large battery with a charger for smartphones. Power banks can be charged at public charging stations. You can then connect your smartphone or tablet to the power bank.

An open door may tempt a saint: If possible, always keep your devices with you instead of leaving them unattended. If you are planning a trip to the beach, we recommend that you lock your mobile devices in the safe in your hotel room.

You're back!

You're back in Switzerland, tanned, refreshed and happy. We have two more recommendations for you:

Back up your photos. Otherwise, they will be lost if the device is stolen or no longer works at a later date.
Check your account statement and your credit card and subscription statements to make sure that your credit card was not misused.

And always remember to make sure your privacy is sufficiently protected on social media.

Helpful checklists for social media privacy settings can be found on the Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts website:

For more tips on travelling abroad, visit www.ebas.ch/holidaycheck.