The last thing anyone wants on their family trip is to somehow end up in an online scam. This situation is already nothing less than a nightmare, all this happening in an unfamiliar place makes it even more stressful.
What if I tell you that such cyber crimes are no longer rare occurrences? According to Booking.com’s reports, there has been a 500-900% increase in travel scams in the past few months. (ITRC: Traveling Scams)
I know these numbers can look quite overwhelming, especially to those planning to travel with their kids soon. But no need to worry, because in this post, I will share 10 safety measures to help you ensure safe travel with kids and prevent any unfortunate experiences in a foreign land.
1. Do Not Post Your Plans on Social Media
Who doesn’t want to post the great time they are having with their family on a beautiful vacation? Especially when you have a Europe travel eSIM to deliver reliable internet connectivity.
But this is where one needs to hold back, instantly posting travelling plans on social media is like inviting terror. Posting on social media in the happy haze of your vacation can give away your location and sensitive details to potential scammers lurking behind the screen, looking for their next targets.
It is wise to always share the pictures and videos from the vacation once you are back.
2. Keep Your VPN Enabled
If you need to connect any electronic devices with any new or unfamiliar networks, make sure to enable the VPN. VPN acts as a protective wall, securing the connection, encrypting personal details and making it safer to browse under public wifi or any other network conditions.
DO YOU KNOW? According to findings, 20% of all attempted transactions in the traveling industry are identified as fraud attacks.
3. Turn Off Cookies and Autofill Options
Those who have enabled autofill settings on their mobile phones, do not forget to turn it off before setting off for the journey. Yes, they are convenient, but they can also pose various privacy threats, especially when traveling with kids who are not mature enough to understand these concepts.
4. Keep Operating Systems Updated
Keep all the operating systems and applications updated, this enhances your device’s ability to defend itself against malware and cyberattacks.
It might seem like an “additional chore”, but in case of emergencies, this small step can save you from a lot of damage.
5. Disable Auto connecting
Some devices automatically seek and connect to wireless connections available nearby, this can act as a gateway for various potential threats. To prevent this, disable remote connectivity and encourage your kids to use wired devices if they need to.
6. Do not Download or Click Unknown Links
Sending fishy links attached to emails and messages is a famous phishing tactic, often used by fraudsters. Never click on any messages from unknown or suspicious senders.
Also, educate your children about the same as they might tap into such messages, driven by curiosity.
7. Guard Your Mobile Phone
Mobile phones and other electronic devices getting stolen is not a unique story anymore. According to reports, 1 in 5 international travelers have lost their cell phones or had it stolen. Mobile phones can act as a gateway to private and critical information for cybercriminals, which can result in grave consequences.
That is why, always guard your phone, and do not let your little ones use or carry it, especially in a crowded place.
8.Configure Devices for Remote Wiping
To prepare for the worst-case scenario, configure your devices for remote wiping. This allows you to erase the sensitive data from the device in case it gets stolen.
Also, affix a small label with your details on all the electronic devices you are carrying, this will increase the chances of them returning to you and make it easier for authorities to deliver them to you when they find them.
DO YOU KNOW? 53% of travel sector companies say online fraud costs them upwards of $10 million a year.
9.Be Wary of eVisa Website Scams
E-visas websites are immensely helpful for travelers, no one wants to stand in long queues to submit their visa applications at the embassy. However, fraudsters were quick to realize this and turn it into a new opportunity to trick people.
There are hundreds of fake e-visa websites designed to mislead or fool travelers. Make sure to check the credibility of the website before taking any action on it.
10. Choose ATMs Wisely
Card skimming is another huge digital threat to tourists, it occurs when criminals attach small scanning devices to ATMs that send your card details to them, making it easier for them to access your account.
Since the machines placed in quiet alleys or convenience stores are easy for scammers to access, it is better to avoid using such facilities.
Instead, use ATMs inside banks, as they are a much more secure environment and mostly under CCTV surveillance, this significantly reduces the chances of the machine being rigged.
Final Words!
Touring with family is a beautiful experience, and the last thing that should be on anyone’s mind during this is the constant worry of having to deal with possible scams or cybercriminals.
The constant stress can especially heighten when traveling with kids, who are not aware of the possible threats out there and can be easily lured into such attacks.
By following the ten protective measures shared in this article, you can free yourself of those worries and truly enjoy and spend quality time with your children. So the next time you travel, make sure to keep these best practices into account and ensure a safe and anxiety-free travel.
Gaurav Rathore
