Avoid this from happening before your next trip.
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Forget about pickpockets and lost luggage. The biggest threat to your next vacation may be lurking online.
“Anyone is a potential victim,” warns Seth Ruden, global advisory director at biometrics company BioCatch. “However, frequent travelers are likely targets, and travel rewards, airline miles, and other payment details stored in travel accounts can be lucrative and easily monetized.”
People are more concerned about cybersecurity than ever before. In fact, a recent survey by Travelers Insurance found that 62% of respondents were concerned about online safety, the highest level in 11 years. (Travelers surveyed business owners, but other research shows that travelers' concerns are reflected more broadly.)
What are the cyber threats to travelers in 2025?
The cyber threats that travelers face range from phishing scams aimed at stealing personal information to fake travel websites and rental listings that leave victims stranded and financially strapped. According to cybersecurity firm Check Point Research, by 2024, one in 33 newly registered vacation-related domains will be malicious or suspicious. The company said this category included phishing sites that mimicked Booking.com, Kayak, and other popular travel platforms.
“Threat actors now have the ability to identify and target mobile devices, deliver malicious code to the device, access the device and track its location, activate the device microphone, and intercept messages. ,” said Frank Harrison, U.S. Regional Security Director. World Travel Protection. “To protect travelers and their data, it is essential to adopt cybersecurity measures that focus on risk mitigation.”
Abhishek Karnik, head of threat research at McAfee, said there are two places where travelers are especially vulnerable: while booking and while traveling.
“Travellers need to remain vigilant,” he says.
But how?
Thorough online hygiene management
As technology continues to become more deeply integrated into our travel experiences, the risk of cyberattacks when booking travel online or accessing unsecured networks abroad has become a growing concern.
Peter Hamdi, managing director of Auckland & Beyond Tours, says there is a need to be cautious in 2025.
“From my extensive experience in the travel industry, I can tell you that one of the most significant dangers is that the cybersecurity threat landscape is likely to evolve,” he says.
So, improve your online hygiene. This means changing your passwords often, enabling two-factor authentication, avoiding clicking on phishing links, and never giving your passwords or access codes to anyone. You can also use a travel insurance app to stay safe.
Use a VPN
Joe Cronin, CEO of International Citizens Insurance, says using a virtual private network (VPN) can increase your safety.
“Travelers are always looking for free Wi-Fi, but many of the public networks they may connect to are not secure and put their personal data at risk,” he explains. “We always recommend that travelers use a VPN to protect their phones and laptops when using public Wi-Fi.”
be careful who you trust
One of the most common social engineering threats while traveling is identity fraud. Kalink, the McAfee security expert, said attackers could impersonate hotel staff, tour guides or even travelers to gain access to personal information on the device.
“Always verify a person’s identity before sharing sensitive information or handing over personal property,” he added.
Beware of phishing
Phishing (sending emails that imitate reputable companies to trick you into providing personal information) has become much more sophisticated.
“Travel is a perfect opportunity for identity theft campaigns,” warns Rishika Desai, a threat researcher at predictive security firm BforeAI. “At a time when prices are especially high, many people are looking for deals, and cybercriminals are impersonating well-known, legitimate brands.”
What's the fix? Never click on an email and follow a link from a source you don't recognize. Always visit the company's site directly to check their travel offers.
Beware of AI
Artificial intelligence is giving cybercriminals the tools they need to attack even the most sophisticated travelers at high speed.
“AI can build persuasive websites, create more natural-sounding language, and even generate fake reviews,” said Cash Merrill, CEO of software developer Zibtek. Masu. “With AI-driven technology, everything seems much more legitimate, and people are hooked on it.”
The advent of AI is making it more difficult for travelers to distinguish between legitimate offers and scams, but artificial intelligence isn't perfect. With a little practice, you can spot AI-generated text, photos, videos, and fake travel offers. Or you can take a shortcut. If an online offer seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Do this to protect yourself online
Perhaps the best advice is to leave nothing to chance. Unfortunately, new research shows that travelers are just jumping on board. According to a recent poll by Opinium Research, only about 2 in 10 business travelers say they are required to take training courses on how to improve their cybersecurity.
“Do your research and plan for any potential issues that may arise,” says John Gobbels, chief operating officer of the air medical transport and travel safety program Medjet. “It's always more stressful in the moment, but it's easier if you have systems and backup plans in place.”
Cybersecurity support is also available to protect travelers from unforeseen circumstances. For example, BOXX Insurance and World Travel Protection recently launched cybersecurity assistance for business travelers to monitor emerging digital risks and help predict and prevent potential threats and fraud. This type of support may soon be available to leisure travelers as well.
The golden rule of travel is to always expect the unexpected. In 2025, that means anticipating and preparing for the growing threat of cybercrime. That way, your adventures can be defined by fun discoveries rather than digital disasters.
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