It’s easy when embarking on an outdoor adventure to become swept up in the excitement of discovering nature that we forget the importance of safeguarding our digital identity. Even in nature, personal data and online privacy are at risk. These tips will help you protect your digital identity when enjoying outdoor activities.
Secure your devices first. Be sure to protect your electronic devices, such as smartphones, tablets and laptops, with biometric or strong passwords before you leave. In the event of loss or theft, this simple measure can prevent unauthorized access to personal information.
Public Wi-Fi networks should be used with caution. It may seem tempting to use free Wi-Fi at camping sites or parks, but these networks can be unsecured and hackers are more likely to access your information. While connected to a public Wi-Fi, avoid accessing any sensitive data, including financial accounts and personal emails. Consider using your data plan on mobile or a virtual private network for an encrypted and secure connection.
Be careful when sharing photos and videos of your travels on social media. You can be vulnerable both to physical and digital attacks if you post your location or travel itinerary. Wait until after you return home before sharing your pictures and travel experiences. This will reduce the chance of someone tracking your location or attempting to hack your account.
Update your apps and devices regularly. Updates to software often contain important security patches which protect you against vulnerabilities. Keep your software and devices up-to-date to have the most recent security protections.
Beware phishing. Cybercriminals look for ways to fool unsuspecting people. You should be wary of emails, links, and messages that request personal data or login credentials. Verify the legitimacy of all requests and avoid clicking unfamiliar links.
Last but not least, create strong passwords that are unique for all your accounts online. Use unique passwords and avoid using the same password on multiple platforms. Use a password management program to generate and store complex passwords.
You can enjoy outdoor activities while protecting your digital identity by following the tips below. In the wild, it’s important to be vigilant about your security online.