Don’t just protect your skin, but your mobile device, too!
Your smartphone or tablet will no doubt come along on holiday with you. It’s handy to take souvenir snaps and stay in contact with friends and family, but maybe also to keep an eye on your finances or make an urgent payment.
For a totally relaxed holiday, use our checklist to protect your mobile device and any data stored there.
before your holiday
Make a back-up
Your devices could get lost or damaged on holiday. Back up your data before you leave, just in case.
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Update operating system and apps
Outdated software is often prone to vulnerabilities, making it easy for attackers to take control of a device. Install the latest version of your OS and all apps.
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Activate screen lock
With tablets and smartphones, the risk of loss or theft is considerably greater than with your home PC. Make sure to activate your automatic screen lock via code, password, fingerprint or face recognition on all mobile devices.
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Install antivirus app
Malware is ever-present on mobile devices, too. There is an even higher risk of infection when travelling. Make absolutely sure to use an antivirus app on your Android device.
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Install banking app
To also do your banking on the go, install your financial institution’s mobile banking app, if available, from the official store. Activate or set this up before you leave. To check on your account on the go, you can also activate messages/notifications (e. g. via SMS) for any account movements.
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Also: Remember to take the right travel adaptor for your charger, and to activate your data roaming option, if applicable.
while on holiday
Only connect to trustworthy and encrypted WiFi
Only connect your device to trustworthy and encrypted networks when on the go. Your hotel’s WiFi is usually a good choice. Too often, public “Free WiFi” networks are not secure and should therefore be avoided.
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Never leave your device unattended
Even a locked device can be misused if it falls into the wrong hands. Always keep an eye on your mobile or tablet - opportunity makes the thief.
Only do your banking on your own device
Third-party devices or those publicly accessible, e. g. a computer in your hotel lobby, are usually not protected too well and not up-to-date. Sensitive business, i.e. banking or other financial transactions, should only be processed on your own device.
Make sure no-one is looking over your shoulder
There is a great risk of rubberneckers watching you when you are e-banking, e. g. to spy on your password, particularly on the go. Don’t let anyone look over your shoulder.
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Also: In case of theft or loss of your device, have your SIM card and mobile banking access blocked immediately.
after your holiday
Back-up your holiday snaps
Smartphones and tablets don’t last forever - due to technical defects, water damage or theft, you could quickly end up losing your valuable photos and documents. Regularly back up your data, especially after your holidays.
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Check bank statements, credit card and subscription bills
To make sure no-one has misused your bank account, credit card or mobile subscription while you were away, check all relevant bank statements and bills.
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