HTTPS network protocol, antivirus and access to VPNs: everything to connect safely on vacation

June 24 (Portaltic/EP) –

Many users consider the holidays as a moment of rest and disconnection, both services dedicated to work -such as email or video call platforms- as well as those intended for leisure, mainly social networks.

Although it is true that for many this isolation is necessary, others choose to use them to share the course of their vacations, which is often frustrated because cannot use your mobile data. This happens mainly in countries where a ‘roaming’ fee is applied.

Hence the need for connect to Wi-Fi networks, available both in establishments and hotels, as well as other free access points. These are becoming more common, and just as they are an attractive source of connection, they are also dangerous.

They are because cybercriminals take advantage of them to distribute their malicious campaigns and earn revenue by installing ‘malware’ on the devices from which users connect, who are unaware of the threats to which they are exposed when using these networks.

To reduce the risks of using public networks, it is advisable to access web page connections via HTTPS (acronyms that correspond to Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) and enter full URLs in the browser’s address bar, without reducing them to the domain, as OnePlus experts explain.

Thus, it is recommended to write them ‘https://example.com’ and not ‘example.com’. This will prevent the browser from completing the search automatically using a standard network protocol that can lead to negative consequences.

Security is also greater if you use a virtual private network (VPN), as it creates a protected tunnel so that user data is kept safe. While it is true that there are both free and paid networks of this type, it is always preferable to invest in a commercial service.

Also it is advisable to avoid carrying out sensitive operations -such as filling out forms with personal information or checking bank accounts- when using an open or public network.

It is also not advisable to send documents or images while connected to such a network. In any case, secure tools must be used, such as Google’s Nearby Share, included in all smartphones with Android version 6.0 or later.

Once this function is activated, a hotspot is established on the mobile for a short period of time in order to transfer files between devices that are physically close.

It doesn’t hurt to use an antivirus ‘software’ on the device that is going to be used during the holidays. This program would serve as a shield against ‘malware’ by scanning applications to detect intrusive ‘software’ components and suppress potential threats.