Ensure your phone is travel-ready with these key steps: lock Control Center access, turn off roaming and mobile data, use an authenticator app for 2FA, enable remote tracking, back up data, and avoid auto-connecting to public Wi-Fi. These measures help protect against theft, data breaches, and unexpected costs, ensuring a safe and secure trip abroad.
As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, your smartphone has become more than just a device for communication. It holds your travel documents, banking apps, personal information, and more. However, the convenience of having everything in your pocket comes with risks, especially when you travel abroad.
From preventing identity theft to avoiding hefty roaming charges, it’s essential to secure your phone before heading overseas. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to set up your phone for a secure, cost-efficient, and connected travel experience.
“Many people pack their passports but forget to ‘pack’ their digital defences,” says Jes Johnson, a technology expert at SmartMove.us. “A lot of theft and data breaches abroad are preventable. In fact, your phone is only as secure as its settings.”
Johnson highlights that opportunistic theft remains one of the top threats while travelling. A stolen phone can be wiped and sold within minutes if it’s not properly secured. One of the most overlooked but crucial steps is disabling access to settings like airplane mode from the lock screen.
Johnson also warns about the hidden costs of data usage while abroad. “You might think you’re safe just by turning your phone off or leaving it on silent, but background apps can still sync. One accidental tap and you’re facing a hefty bill.”
6 tips on to set up your phone for a safe, smart, and theft-proof
1. Lock down control center access from the lock screen
Smartphones are an attractive target for opportunistic thieves, particularly in tourist-heavy areas. Thieves can exploit quick-access settings, like the Control Center on iPhones or the Quick Settings on Android devices, to disable tracking features or put the phone in airplane mode, making it untraceable. To safeguard your device, it’s crucial to lock down access to these settings when your phone is locked. By doing so, you prevent thieves from making your phone harder to locate or disable your data connections.
2. Turn off mobile data and roaming (unless covered)
International roaming charges can accumulate quickly and lead to unpleasant surprises when you return home. To avoid excessive costs, turn off mobile data and disable roaming before you travel abroad unless you’re using a travel-friendly plan or have purchased an international SIM card. These small actions can save you from the hidden costs of background apps that sync data, even when your phone is not actively in use. It’s also advisable to monitor your usage throughout your trip to ensure you stay within budget.
3. Switch to an authenticator app for two-factor authentication
While SMS-based two-factor authentication (2FA) is commonly used for securing accounts, it’s not always reliable when travelling. In fact, it may not work at all in certain countries and is vulnerable to SIM-swap fraud, where thieves gain access to your phone number and intercept 2FA codes. For enhanced security, it’s better to use an authenticator app, like Google Authenticator, as it doesn’t rely on your phone number and provides more robust protection.
4. Enable remote tracking and lock tools
In the unfortunate event that your phone is lost or stolen, it’s essential to have tools in place that can help you track or lock it remotely. Enabling services like “Find My iPhone” for Apple devices or “Find My Device” for Android allows you to locate your phone, lock it, or even wipe it remotely. These tools can be a lifesaver, ensuring that your personal information stays secure even if your phone is no longer in your possession.
5. Back up your data before you go
Before you embark on your trip, ensure all important data on your phone, such as contacts, photos, and documents, is securely backed up. Cloud services like Google Drive, iCloud, or external drives are excellent ways to store data, so you don’t risk losing irreplaceable files while travelling. Regular backups are essential, especially when you’re relying on your phone for essential travel documents or personal information.
6. Avoid auto-connecting to public Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi networks, especially those in airports, cafés, or hotels, are often unsecured and can be a prime target for hackers. To prevent your data from being compromised, disable automatic Wi-Fi connections and connect only to trusted networks. For extra protection, consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) when accessing sensitive apps like banking services or email. A VPN encrypts your data, making it harder for cybercriminals to intercept your information while browsing.
About Jes Johnson
Jes Johnson is a technology expert with over ten years of experience in digital transformation and cybersecurity. She assists both organisations and individuals in making informed, secure decisions regarding technology—whether at home, in the workplace, or while travelling.
About SmartMove
SmartMove simplifies the setup of internet, TV, phone, and smart home services for households during relocation. Previously known as CableMover, SmartMove has been assisting movers nationwide for nearly 15 years, offering trusted tools and resources to help them find the best digital service providers at competitive prices. Whether moving locally or across the country, SmartMove ensures a seamless transition into your new digital environment.
Himani Verma is a seasoned content writer and SEO expert, with experience in digital media. She has held various senior writing positions at enterprises like CloudTDMS (Synthetic Data Factory), Barrownz Group, and ATZA. Himani has also been Editorial Writer at Hindustan Time, a leading Indian English language news platform. She excels in content creation, proofreading, and editing, ensuring that every piece is polished and impactful. Her expertise in crafting SEO-friendly content for multiple verticals of businesses, including technology, healthcare, finance, sports, innovation, and more.
