Summer is a time when many of us take the opportunity to relax and enjoy the good weather. However, we must not forget that the digital world never rests, and it is important to keep ourselves protected online, even during our vacations. In this article, from Open Canarias, we want to share with you some cybersecurity tips to ensure a safe online experience while enjoying the summer. From protecting your devices to keeping your personal data safe, here you will find valuable information to protect yourself in cyberspace.

Keep your devices up to date.

One of the first steps to ensuring your online security is to keep your devices up to date. This includes your smartphone, tablet, laptop and any other device you use to access the internet. Software updates often contain security patches that fix known vulnerabilities. Set your devices to update automatically or remember to do it manually before you leave on vacation. This way, you will be protected against the latest threats and ensure that your personal data is safeguarded.

Use strong and different passwords.

The use of strong and different passwords is essential to protect your online accounts. Avoid using obvious or predictable passwords, such as birthdays or common words. Instead, create long passwords that combine upper and lower case letters, numbers and symbols. Also, it’s important to use different passwords for each account, because if a cybercriminal discovers one, they won’t be able to access all of your accounts. If you find it difficult to remember all your passwords, consider using a reliable password manager to store them securely.

Be careful with public Wi-Fi networks.

While on vacation, you are likely to use public Wi-Fi networks in hotels, restaurants or airports. However, you should Be cautious when connecting to these networks, as they can be insecure and prone to attacks by cybercriminals. Avoid conducting financial transactions or accessing sensitive information while connected to a public Wi-Fi network. If you need to do so, use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to encrypt your data and protect your privacy. A VPN creates a secure tunnel between your device and the server you connect to, preventing third parties from intercepting your data.

*Be aware of suspicious emails and messages.

Fraudulent emails and text messages, also known as “phishing,” are a common tactic used by cybercriminals to obtain personal information. During the summer, you may receive bogus emails that appear to be from airlines, hotels or travel agencies, requesting confidential information. Use caution when opening links or attachments in unsolicited emails and avoid providing sensitive personal information through text messages. Always verify the authenticity of the source before sharing any information.

Protect your data on social networks.

During the vacations, it is common to share photos and updates on social media to keep your friends and family informed about your adventures. However, Be aware that everything you share online can be viewed by strangers. Be sure to review the privacy settings on your social media profiles and limit who can see your posts. Avoid posting sensitive personal information, such as your exact address or details of your travel plans. Remember that once you share something online, it can be difficult to remove it completely.

While enjoying the summer and relaxing, it is crucial not to neglect your online security. By following these cybersecurity tips from Open Canarias, you can protect yourself from digital threats and enjoy a safe online experience. Keep your devices updated, use strong and different passwords, be cautious when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks, be aware of suspicious emails and protect your data on social networks. Enjoy the sun and have fun, but don’t forget that online safety is a critical part of your digital well-being.