Many travellers are unaware that their hotel rooms can be hotspots for digital threats, turning a seemingly relaxing holiday into a risky situation for their personal data and devices.

– Cybersecurity doesn't take a holiday just because you do. Even in your hotel room, hackers can exploit weak points in public infrastructure and devices to gain access to your information. Therefore, travellers must take digital security seriously – especially when using unknown networks abroad, says Matas Cenys, Product Manager at Sailing.

Here are five ways your devices can be hacked on holiday – and how to protect yourself with smart preventative measures and secure mobile connectivity.

1. Hotel Wi-Fi: Secure your connection

Public Wi-Fi is convenient, but it's also one of the easiest routes for hackers to get in. In hotels, cybercriminals can exploit network vulnerabilities by either infecting the hotel's legitimate Wi-Fi or creating fake hotspots – ”evil twins” – that look like the hotel's own networks but aim to steal your data.

This is what you can do: Always confirm the network name with hotel staff or, even better, avoid public Wi-Fi altogether by using mobile data via an eSIM service and get secure and affordable internet access.

2. USB charging ports: Stick to the power outlet

USB ports in hotel rooms can be convenient, particularly for international travellers, but they are not always secure. Modified ports can enable ”juice jacking” – a method where malware is transferred to your phone via the USB cable, allowing hackers to steal passwords, bank card numbers, or even your location.

You can do this: Use your own charger and plug it directly into a wall socket. For extra protection, you could consider travelling with a USB data blocker or a portable power bank.

3. Smart TV: Don't let the screen spy on you

Smart TVs in hotel rooms are often equipped with cameras, microphones and access to streaming services – and sometimes they are poorly secured. Hackers can exploit these devices to eavesdrop, spy or obtain login credentials.

You can do this: Avoid logging into apps with private accounts. Unplug the TV when not in use, and cover the camera if possible.

4. Automatic connections: Disable and secure

Most smartphones are set to automatically connect to known Wi-Fi networks, but this can backfire when you're surrounded by insecure or malicious networks. Devices can reconnect without you noticing – even when you’re not in the room.

You can do this: Turn off automatic connection for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Activate security apps such as firewalls or VPN services and ensure they are set to start automatically when you connect to public networks.

5. Phishing: Be on your guard

Advanced cybercriminals like DarkHotel are known for targeting affluent travellers in luxury hotels through phishing and malware-infected networks. Their phishing emails are convincing, highly personalised, and designed to fool even the most vigilant users.

Here's what you can do: be vigilant. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading unknown attachments – even when you're on holiday. Keeping your software and apps updated can also reduce vulnerabilities.

Whether you're travelling for work or pleasure, you should ensure your devices are protected – so that your memories are the only thing you bring home from your trip.

Source: Saily