Staying Secure on the Go: Cybersecurity for Traveling

June 18, 2025

Whether you’re traveling for work or rest, it’s hard to unplug completely from technology. The more connected we are, the more we expose ourselves to cyber risks, especially on the road. But as followers of Christ, we don’t live in fear—we live with wisdom. Proverbs 22:3 reminds us, “The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty.” So in this article, we’re covering common travel-related cyber threats and simple ways to stay secure wherever your journey takes you. Plus, you can download our free Travel Security Checklist

Common Cyber Risks While Traveling

1. Unsecure Wireless Networks, Public Devices & Charging Stations

Public Wi-Fi: Airports, hotels, coffee shops—all convenient, but often unprotected. Hackers can set up fake hotspots (called “Evil Twins”) to intercept your data. Always verify network names with staff and avoid entering sensitive info over public networks.
Public Computers: Hotel business centers and cyber cafés might be infected with keyloggers—software that silently records every keystroke, including your passwords. Avoid logging into accounts or accessing private data on these machines.
Charging Stations (“Juice Jacking”): Some USB stations may be altered to steal data. Instead:
- Use a data blocker (available online for $10–15).
- Bring a portable battery bank.
- Plug your phone into your own laptop, not public ports.

2. Device Theft

Travelers are common targets, especially during meal times or at busy events like conferences. Don’t leave laptops or devices unattended—even in hotel rooms.

3. Phishing and Social Engineering

When you announce your trip on social media or via out-of-office emails, scammers take note. They may craft fake airline alerts, hotel updates, or financial warnings. Always:

Check sender details.
Avoid clicking suspicious links.
Go directly to official websites when in doubt.

4. Cyber Threats at Your Destination

Research the digital climate of your travel destination. Some countries are hotspots for cybercrime. Others may criminalize content that is legal in the U.S., including religious materials. Be wise about what you store or access while abroad.

Before You Go: A Cybersecurity Packing List

Prepare as intentionally as you would for a mission trip or vacation.

Travel Light: Bring only the devices you truly need.
Check Your Settings: Review privacy settings and disable location tracking where possible.
Update Your Devices: Enable automatic updates to stay protected against known vulnerabilities.
Back Up Your Data: Store important files in the cloud or on an external hard drive—ideally both.
Enable “Find My Device”: In case of loss or theft, you can locate or wipe your device remotely.
Use Strong Passwords + Lock Screens: Set up PINs, facial recognition, or fingerprint unlocks.
Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Especially for your email, banking, and social apps.

Get our free Travel Security Checklist below

Sheperd Security – Travel Security Checklist Download

While You’re There: Stay Vigilant

Turn Off Auto-Connect: Disable auto Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections.
Think Before You Connect: Confirm network names with hotel/airport staff. Avoid sensitive transactions on public Wi-Fi.
Be Cautious with Clicks: Don’t download apps or click links you didn’t ask for.
Guard Your Gear: Never leave your devices out of sight in taxis, airports, or hotel rooms.

Social Media: Post Wisely

Oversharing invites risk—both cyber and physical.

Delay posting vacation pics until you’re back home.
Avoid tagging your location in real time.
Review and tighten your account security settings.
Enable MFA on all your social accounts.

Travel can be a refreshing gift from God, but it comes with new responsibilities. Just as we lock the doors of our homes when we leave, we must also secure our digital lives as we go. Technology can be a powerful tool for connections, but we’re called to steward it wisely.So whether you’re heading to a conference, a mission trip, or just taking some time off—travel smart, stay alert, and trust God as your ultimate protector.

“The Lord will keep you from all harm—He will watch over your life; the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.” – Psalm 121:7-8