When my husband and I were on a very long flight last year, he leaned over and asked, “I want to check our Morgan Stanley account. Do you think it’s okay to do that with Airplane Wi-Fi? “
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How did we live without Wi-Fi on the plane? Oh yes, we read magazines! Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but Wi-Fi isn’t as secure as we’d hope. Don’t be afraid. I have some tips on protecting yourself and surfing the skies safely.
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Up in the air
Hackers use all kinds of cunning tactics to steal your privacy in flight. One thing in their favor: VPNs are more likely to land in and out of the air than on the ground. (More on that below.)
Without that layer of protection, cyber-criminals using The same airline Wi-Fi can easily get into your devices, access your data and spread malware.
Here are some tips for safe web surfing from the sky. (iStock)
“S” for safety: Just visit encrypted websites – the ones that start with “https” (that “S” is important!). Generally, this blocks a hacker from viewing your activity on a particular website, such as a password or credit card number you entered.
Watch out for the Airdrop: Keyloggers track every single thing you type, and criminals like to bypass them using Apple’s Airdrop feature. Do not accept drops from strangers in flight. Steps here to disable or restrict Airdrop If you need help.
Game Name: Crooks can create fake Wi-Fi networks with almost identical airline company names. If you are not careful, you can join a copycat network instead of a legitimate one.
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I know you won’t skip Wi-Fi entirely. That’s fine, just be smart about it.
Update all: Before you hit the road, make sure your phone, computer, tablet, smartwatch and any other connected devices are running the latest software. Here are the steps for Windows, Mac, iPhone and Android. Updates often include critical security patches that protect against new threats. Don’t forget to update your apps too.
Add a layer of security: A virtual private network (VPN) encrypts your internet connection. Before you access anything sensitive, like your email, online banking or shopping accounts, turn on your VPN. Double check its status to ensure it is actively protecting your connection. It should show as “connected” or “secured”.
While VPNs are an easy way to secure your internet connection from the ground, they’re often much more flimsy – and in turn, less effective – when you’re flying. (iStock)
Check the names. If you notice multiple Wi-Fi networks with similar names, check with airline staff to confirm which one is the right one.
Use 2fa: For any account related to financial information Or personal information, two-factor authentication is essential. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second verification step, such as a code sent to your phone or email, after entering your password. Set this for all accounts with links to your finances to reduce the risk of unauthorized access.
Secure your devices. Invest in anti-virus and anti-malware software and keep your devices physically secure. Avoid leaving your phone, tablet or laptop unattended, even for a moment.
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Stop Loosy Loos. Get a Privacy screen To keep your laptop from snooping near your shoulder.
Bonus: Don’t post pictures of your boarding pass or other travel documents
You are excited, waiting for the plane. What’s the harm in posting a picture of your boarding? A lot. Boarding passes show your full legal name, ticket number and passenger name record. That six-digit code plus your last name gives anyone access to your online booking information.
The same goes for your license, passport, visa or other identification documents. Thieves look out for any detail they can use.
Keep these photos on your phone before your vacation. Scroll to no. 3. You’ll thank me if anything goes missing.
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