Bank Forward Blog

Monday June 06 2022

Your Summer Travel Security Checklist

Your travel packing checklist probably looks something like this: toothbrush—check, deodorant—check, socks—check, swimsuit—check, underwear—check, you get the idea. But another travel checklist we don’t often thing about is our security checklist on the road.

When we travel, we often use public Wi-Fi, tagging your locations (whether or not you realize it), carrying around your passport, and using your debit or credit card more often. And all of these things put you at a higher risk of identity theft.

But not to worry! Here is our security checklist to help keep you safe this summer:

  1. Keep your software—operating system, web browsers and mobile apps—up-to-date to protect against the latest malware threats. Most software can update automatically. Set yours to do so.
  2. Don’t assume a Wi-Fi hotspot is secure. Wi-Fi hotspots in coffee shops, airports, hotels, and other public places often are not secure. To protect your information when using wireless hotspots, send information only to websites that are fully encrypted, and avoid using mobile apps that require personal or financial information.
  3. If you often use Wi-Fi when you travel, consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN). A VPN creates an encrypted connection between your device and the VPN provider’s network. That allows you to securely connect to the internet by keeping your exchanges private while you use Wi-Fi. Typically, you pay for an app or service that allows you to use a VPN. Some VPNs are more secure and easier to use than others, so shop around. Read reviews from several sources, including impartial experts.
  4. Check the location services in your phone’s settings. If you don’t want to share where you are, consider turning off location services. If you use social media apps, check the default settings to know if your location is posted along with photos or check-in’s.
  5. Act quickly if sensitive information gets lost or exposed. That means your Social Security number, passport, driver’s license, debit or credit card information. If your Bank Forward accounts or cards are compromised, lost or stolen, contact us immediately. And now the power really is in your hands: you can also turn off your debit card using the Card Control mobile app.

Follow the tips on our checklist and you can hit the road with extra peace of mind this summer!

Your Summer Travel Security Checklist Back to All Blogs