1. Prefer 4G over wifi
On holiday, it is always safer to use a 4G network. Check the conditions of your mobile phone subscription. If you don't have to pay extra for data traffic, it's best to use your subscription. If you have enough data available and don't want to watch long films, you can also use your mobile phone as a hotspot for your laptop or tablet. For calls, text messages and data usage in the EU, you will pay the same amount as at home.
2. Use a VPN
Install a Virtual Private Network (VPN). This is your personal secure tunnel through the wifi network. You can install free or paid VPN services online. Several virus scanners offer a VPN.
3. Preferably use a secure network
A secure network is one for which you are given a password. The wifi in an airport, holiday park, hotel or restaurant is sometimes password protected but sometimes not. Always choose the secured network if possible.
Also, always ask for the correct name of the network (SSID). The correct name of the network is e.g. HotelSunandSee. A cybercriminal can quite easily set up a fake wifi network with the enticing name: HotelSunandSee_superfast. If you connect to that, that criminal can intercept all your online activities.
4. Limit your actions if you do use an open wifi network
Banking transactions or other important business should not be done over an open wifi network. Avoid creating accounts that require you to enter a password when you are on an open wifi network. There is a chance that it will be read and therefore your password will be known.
5. Turn off the connection to the wifi when you are no longer using it
Criminals can then no longer try to gain access. Make sure your device does not automatically search for and connect to wifi. Your battery will be happy with this too.
