Tips for travelling overseas

When you travel overseas, you are extra vulnerable to cyber criminals. Here’s how we recommend you protect your personal information and devices.

1. Avoid public wi-fi

Public wi-fi is often risky. Try to connect to known wi-fi networks (for example, the wi-fi available at your hotel), and where possible use a mobile hotspot instead. If you need to use public wi-fi, consider using a VPN.

A safe way to access the internet overseas is to use eduroam, which is available at more than 12,000 locations worldwide. You can download the eduroam Companion app to navigate to locations that offer eduroam wi-fi.

2. Refresh your passwords

Before you depart, refresh your passwords on all your devices, especially your phone, laptop and tablet. Choose new passphrases, and where possible use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA).

If you’re trying to use DUO Mobile while overseas and you don’t have an internet connection, you can choose the passcode option and type in the code generated by the app.

3. Keep an eye on it!

Never leave your devices unattended or out in the open where they can be stolen. Even though a thief would struggle to guess your strong passphrase, it’s still no fun losing a device. Always remember to lock the screen on your laptop or tablet when it's not in use.

4. Keep eyes off it!

Watch out for people looking over your shoulder when you use your devices. If you must access sensitive information in a public place, dim your screen and consider using a privacy screen protector.

5. Pack light

Do you need to carry every device you own with you when travelling? Consider leaving some your personal devices at home, such as your tablet or fitness tracker.

6. Plan ahead

It is good practice to review the data on all your devices to make sure you’re only carrying data that you actually need. Download any required apps and software updates before leaving so you don't have to do so on a public wi-fi network or when you need to preserve battery life.

7. Enable remote access

Remote access, such as Find My iPhone or Android Device Manager, allows you to locate your device in the event it is lost or stolen. You can also remotely reset it to the factory default, erasing all personal information. It’s a good idea to enable this before you depart.

The Smart Traveller website has more information and tips on how to stay safe online when you travel overseas.