As South Africans gear up for the year-end holidays, cybersecurity experts are urging travelers to prioritize online safety amidst the excitement of holiday plans. Whether heading to Cape Town, Durban, or international destinations, the risks of connecting to unfamiliar networks are real and potentially harmful.
Doros Hadjizenonos, Regional Director at Fortinet, highlights the hidden dangers
“Every time your device connects to a new network—whether at a hotel, coffee shop, or airport—you risk exposing yourself to cyber threats. Infected devices can compromise both personal data and corporate systems.”
Ensure your smartphone, tablet, and laptop are updated with the latest software and security patches before departing. Many updates include critical fixes for vulnerabilities, making this a non-negotiable step in your travel preparations.
Free Wi-Fi at airports or hotels may seem convenient but can expose users to cyber threats. Hadjizenonos advises:
“Use mobile data or invest in a local SIM card where possible. Alternatively, carry a portable Wi-Fi router for secure connections. Avoid sensitive transactions like online banking on public networks.”
Keep your devices secure by enabling complex passwords and encryption. Travelers should never leave their devices unattended in public spaces and consider using password managers to strengthen account security.
The popularity of QR codes in restaurants and stores also comes with risks. Malicious QR codes can direct users to harmful websites or download malware. Always verify the source before scanning.
Sharing holiday updates on social media in real time can expose your location and make you a target for cyber threats. Avoid logging into public Wi-Fi using social media accounts, and refrain from posting sensitive information, such as boarding passes or travel documents.
Business travelers should adhere to additional security practices like, keeping work devices for professional use only, avoid downloading unauthorized software or connecting unknown USB devices and use private, secure networks for work-related activities.
Organizations should implement clear policies for device usage during travel, including encryption, regular updates, and incident response plans for lost or stolen devices.
Doros Hadjizenonos emphasizes that cybersecurity preparation should be as integral to travel plans as packing a passport or securing travel insurance.
“Taking these precautions ensures you can enjoy your trip without worrying about digital threats,” he says.
Safe travels start with secure devices and habits. With these tips in mind, South Africans can explore the world while keeping their data protected.