WITH summer now upon us, many people will be heading to airports across America to embark on a well earned vacation.
But while this will be a time to relax and unwind, the TSA is urging travelers to be vigilant with their phone use at airports.
A TSA Agent checks the ID’s of passengers as they pass through a security checkpoint on the way to their flights at Reagan National Airport[/caption]
The TSA is cautioning passengers against using free public Wi-Fi when at the airport[/caption]
The agency’s first warning relates to the risk of “juice jacking” – where someone’s device can be compromised through charging stations.
Travelers are advised not to plug their phones or laptops into public USB ports.
The agency said: “So, when you’re at an airport do not plug your phone directly into a USB port.
“Bring your TSA-compliant power brick or battery pack and plug in there.”
But the TSA is also cautioning passengers against using free public Wi-Fi when at the airport.
Not using these networks is one of the agency’s “two best tips for staying cyber safe at airports while you’re traveling”.
The TSA added that this is especially pertinent for passengers who plan to make online purchases.
The agency further warns people to “not ever enter any sensitive info while using unsecured Wi-Fi”.
STAYING SECURE ONLINE
While this precaution is advised by the TSA, other agencies stress that travelers shouldn’t panic if they have used public Wi-Fi.
The Federal Trade Commission says that “because of the widespread use of encryption, connecting through a public Wi-Fi network is usually safe.”
Passengers are advised to disable auto-connection to public and unknown Wi-Fi connections, Forbes has reported.
You should also check that the network you are using is encrypted – which is often indicated with a padlock symbol.
If you’re at an airport, hotel or restaurant, it is worth checking with staff that the network you’re joining is the official one.
VPNs can help with online security, but users should ensure they have one that is established and reputable.
