How to Secure Your Accounts While Traveling Abroad

 Being able to go travelling is a thrilling opportunity. But it also brings digital risks.

Whether you’re exploring the souks of Marrakech or preparing for meetings in Singapore, your online accounts become vulnerable the moment you connect to unfamiliar networks or hand over your phone to a stranger for a photo. A few straightforward steps can make all the difference between a smooth trip and a digital disaster.

1. Use strong, unique passwords

Weak passwords or ones that you’ve used a lot are one of the easiest ways for cybercriminals to breach your accounts. When you’re abroad and booking hotels, checking flight times, or accessing travel insurance, any compromised login can expose your personal data.

To avoid hackers accessing your accounts via your password, create a strong password. This should be at least 12 characters long and include a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using real words, names, or predictable patterns.

Also, to ensure your accounts are protected without the hassle of remembering complex passwords, consider using a password manager that can securely store and generate unique passwords for each of your travel accounts.

2. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)

Adding an extra layer of security through 2FA is one of the most effective ways to stop unauthorised access. Even if someone manages to guess or steal your password, they won’t be able to log in without the secondary verification code. This is especially important when you’re using services to manage bookings, transfer funds, or check in to flights.

Most major platforms, from airlines to accommodation sites, offer 2FA via an authentication app or SMS. Choose an app like Authy or Google Authenticator instead of SMS when possible, as it’s less vulnerable to SIM swap scams. Make sure you enable this feature well before your departure.

3. Avoid using public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions

It’s tempting to jump onto the nearest café or airport Wi-Fi to check emails or update your itinerary, but open networks often lack proper encryption. Hackers can intercept the data you send and receive, gaining access to passwords, credit card numbers, and travel details.

While most people feel relatively safe using public Wi-Fi, it’s worth thinking carefully about accessing the open network if you need to access sensitive information. Instead, wait until you’re on a secure network. If that’s not possible, use a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your internet traffic. VPNs are user-friendly and offer strong encryption, protecting your data even on unsecured networks.

4. Lock your devices with strong passwords and encryption

Your phone, laptop, or tablet often holds more personal information than your wallet. If one of these devices is lost or stolen while abroad, you could be giving someone access to everything from your banking app to your passport scans.

Set up a strong device password, not just a four-digit PIN. Enable biometric options such as fingerprint or facial recognition for quick but secure access.

Most modern smartphones and laptops also offer full-disk encryption by default, but it’s worth checking your device settings to make sure it’s turned on. For added peace of mind, activate remote tracking and wiping features so you can erase your data if the device goes missing.

Being proactive about your digital security doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few simple precautions, you can enjoy your travels knowing that your personal data is as secure as your passport.