The holiday season is a time for travel and celebration. However, it is also a time when cybercriminals are more active, as they know that people are more likely to be distracted and make mistakes.

Here are 10 cybersecurity tips  from the National Cybersecurity Alliance to help you stay safe while traveling during the upcoming holidays:

1. Back up files before heading on vacation. If your device is lost, stolen, broken or you otherwise lose access to it, you won’t lose all your data.  
2. Be cautious about using public Wi-Fi. Public Wi-Fi networks are often unsecured, which means that your data can be intercepted by hackers. If you must use public Wi-Fi, avoid accessing sensitive information, such as your bank account or email, while connected.
3. Check the privacy and security settings on web services and apps. Set limits on how and with whom you share information. You might want to change some features, like location tracking, when you are away from home.
4. Keep your devices updated. Software updates often include security patches that can help protect your devices from cyberattacks. Be sure to install all updates as soon as they are available.
5. Set up the “find my phone” feature. Not only will this feature allow you to locate your phone, it gives you the power to remotely wipe data or disable the device if it gets into the wrong hands.
6. Think twice before posting photos or videos that show you are away from home. Wait until you get back to share your magical memories with the whole internet. You might not want everyone to know you aren’t at home.  
7. Actively manage location services. Location tools come in handy while navigating a new place, but they can also expose your location ‒ even through photos. Turn off location services when not in use, and consider limiting how you share your location on social media.
8. Stop auto connecting. When away from home, disable remote connectivity and Bluetooth. Some devices will automatically seek and connect to available wireless networks. Disable these features so that you only connect to wireless and Bluetooth networks when you want to. If you do not need them, switch them off.  
9. Be aware of your surroundings. When you are using your devices in public, be aware of who is around you. Do not enter your passwords or other sensitive information in public places.
10. Avoid using public computers in hotel lobbies and internet cafes, especially for making online purchases or accessing your accounts. If you must use a public computer, keep your activities as generic and anonymous as possible. Avoid inputting credit card information or accessing financial accounts. If you do log into accounts, such as email, always click “logout” when you are finished. Simply closing the browser does not log you out of accounts.

By following these tips, you can help to protect yourself from cybercrime while you are traveling this holiday season. Enjoy your travels!