Protect Your Identity
VPNs for Cyber Security While Traveling
Protecting yourself when traveling is always a concern, but between insurance and not taking too many risks, have you given thought to protecting yourself on the internet? Most travelers are at the mercy of public or unprotected Wi-Fi connections. That leaves you vulnerable to others stealing any and all information you have stored on your computer. Using a VPN while traveling can not only protect you from these threats, but can also make it easier to access content that may be blocked in certain countries. Here are ways to protect your identity while traveling.
How Does a VPN Protect Your Identity While Traveling?
VPNs, or virtual private networks, work by encrypting your data and bypassing open or local networks. In this way, all of your passwords, cookies and private information is safe from prying eyes. You do want to be careful with free VPN services, however, as some have been reported as storing and using user data in unsavory ways.
What Else Can a VPN Do?
Because a VPN makes it seem like your device is connected in a remote location, you can access a lot of content that may be blocked in your physical location. If you want to watch a video that’s unavailable where you are, log on to your VPN and set it to a different country. That also works for social networks that might be blocked in certain places, or for watching country-specific content on streaming sites.
What to Look For in a VPN
While you can find free VPNs that work, paid subscriptions are always a better choice. Look for a service that is easy to install and use, preferably with applications for all the devices you plan to use (laptop, tablet, phone, etc.). Additionally, try to find a VPN that has strong security features, a wide range of countries and a great privacy policy.
The top three VPN services, according to Reviews.com, who recently did a thorough analysis of the available options on the market, are NordVPN, ExpressVPN and Private Internet Access.
NordVPN has incredible security, a variety of encryption methods and can accommodate up to six connections at a time. It’s also easy to use on any of your wireless-capable devices. ExpressVPN is a little more expensive, but is just as secure and has much faster connection speeds. If you’re streaming a lot of blocked content, you may want to pay the extra; you’ll get your money’s worth. For a cheaper option, Private Internet Access will both protect your data and allow you to access blocked content. It works well, but can be tricky to navigate and doesn’t have the best connection speeds.
Cyber Security Checklist – Before You Leave For Vacation!
VPNs aren’t the only way to protect your data and identity while traveling. If you are truly serious about cyber security, take these further steps.
– Backup and store all data before you leave. Leave it at home, on a hard drive or in an encrypted Dropbox folder. Wipe all unnecessary data from your computer, then put it back when you get home.
– Encrypt your files. If you have some essentials you want to protect, encrypt them before leaving home. There are many apps and programs that can do this for you.
– Install security software, password protect everything and never leave your devices unattended.
Traveling in an increasingly global world is exciting. Information sharing can be a great way to keep up with friends back home, but it can also turn into your worst nightmare if you accidentally share with the wrong person. Protect Your Identity While Traveling on the internet and sensitive information with a VPN to make traveling as fun and easy as it should be.
October 13, 2016
