A traveller checks her phone while waiting at the airport. Travel Pulse
As Canadians start planning their fall and winter trips, cybersecurity experts are raising concerns about a rise in online scams. Travelling — whether across the country or overseas — opens the door to new digital risks. Experts say now is the time to take extra care.
Scammers Target Travellers Online
Cyber criminals often take advantage of busy travel seasons. They set up fake Wi-Fi networks in airports and hotels, send phishing emails that look like booking confirmations, and even tamper with charging stations.
Randy Purse, a Senior Advisor in Cybersecurity Training and Education, says, “Any kind of travel — whether domestic or international — can increase cybersecurity risks for Canadians and organizations.”
He adds that when people travel, they’re more likely to face dangers such as device theft, malicious software, and even laws in other countries that allow officials to search their devices.
Top Travel Cyber Tips for Canadians
To stay safe, experts from the Rogers Cybersecure Catalyst shared some simple but effective advice:
Keep Your Information Safe
- Use strong and different passwords for every account and device.
- Turn on multi-factor authentication (MFA) whenever possible.
- Avoid logging into personal accounts on public computers, especially in hotels or cafés.
- Use a virtual private network (VPN) when connecting to the internet, especially on public Wi-Fi.
Protect Your Devices
- Avoid using unknown USB chargers or public charging stations. Bring your own charger.
- Keep your devices with you at all times or lock them in a safe.
- Don’t leave phones or laptops out in public areas, even for a short time.
Stay Alert While Travelling
- Don’t trust every public Wi-Fi network. Always double-check the network name.
- Avoid shared computers. These are often less secure.
- Go through your device before travelling to remove anything that might be risky in another country — including images or documents.
Purse also reminds travellers to reduce their digital footprint. “Stay alert, prepare your devices, and take steps to limit exposure,” he advises.
More Than Just Annoying — It’s Costly
These scams aren't just annoying. They can cause real harm. A single successful phishing attack or malware infection can lead to stolen identity, drained bank accounts, or locked-out emails.
The Rogers Cybersecure Catalyst — based at Toronto Metropolitan University — works to educate Canadians about these threats. As a national centre for cybersecurity training, they aim to help people stay ahead of online scams, especially during busy travel periods.
Why This Matters Now
Fall and winter bring a sharp rise in Canadian travel. Many families plan holidays, visit relatives, or take a break from cold weather. But with that comes more time spent on unfamiliar networks, more time in airports, and more chances to fall for a scam.
The best defence, experts say, is being prepared. Before heading out, take time to check your devices, secure your information, and know the risks.
