Vacation days are a change in our daily lives. However, although they are synonymous with relaxation, this does not apply to cybersecurity threats, which do not cease, not even in the summer.
In this period, it is crucial that all people and companies continue to preserve their online security and, to this end, the team at RCTS CERTdigital service of the Foundation for Science and Technology, developed through FCCN, has some tips that are especially important at this time of year.
#1 Backup and Update
Preparing for a safe vacation starts long before the summer. In the pre-holiday period, make a backup of the most important information on your phone (contacts, images, emails, etc.) to prevent any less desirable accidents.
On the other hand, update the operating system and the applications or programs you use to ensure that the latest cybersecurity threat protections are in place.
#2 Protect your devices with a strong password and double authentication
If access to your devices is not already mediated by a password, it is important that you create this additional step before you start your vacation. You will need to create complex passwords with high levels of security.
Similarly, make sure your devices are locked whenever you're not using them and keep them with you at all times. Even if you're only away for a few minutes, for example, don't take any risks, as someone might want to steal or destroy your information.
Two-factor authentication is also a security method you should consider, as it requires a second form of identification to access your resources and data. So, in addition to the password, you can use methods such as SMS verification, the use of a specific application, voice-based authentication or hardware tokens .
#3 Pay attention to connections
The need to connect to the Internet makes it tempting to use public and open networks. This possibility should be accompanied by a few additional security steps. Start by always checking with the professionals in the place you're in, such as restaurants and hotels, that it's a legitimate network. Ideally, you should have your Wi-Fiand Bluethooth connections turned off by default, and only turn them on to access networks you fully trust.
You should also avoid public charging stations, which can be used to transmit malware to your devices. Alternatively, use a USB filter that blocks any data and only allows power to pass through.
#4 Activate the "Find my device" feature
Regardless of the brand or operating system you use, the vast majority of recent devices include the "Find my device" feature. This is a powerful tool that allows you to track the location of your smartphonefor example, and even lock your device remotely if it is stolen (as long as it has power). In this way, you can reduce anxiety levels while ensuring that your personal information is always safe. Make sure this feature is activated before you start your vacation.
There's always a balance between privacy and functionality, but in this case it's better to be safe and activate this feature
#5 Pay attention to what you post on social media
During the vacations, there are additional reasons for us to be more present online, but caution should also be a constant.
Think before you post! You should always analyze several times before making a post what information is being shared at that moment. If your location is clear, for example, this information could be used against you. A good practice is to share only after you have returned from vacation. Alternatively, you can configure your privacy settings so that only people you trust have access to your online activity.
These are just a few tips to help you have a more peaceful and secure vacation. To find out more about the RCTS CERT service, go to https://www.fccn.pt/areas-tecnologicas/seguranca/rcts-cert/.
