Visiting the World Cup in Russia? How to keep your data safe?

On Thursday the 14th of June, the World Cup in Russia is starting with the first game: Russia against Saudi Arabia. Fans from all over the world are traveling to Russia to support their teams. Avoid scoring a cybersecurity “own goal” and be cautious. Especially if you are coming from the U.S. or EU, as security standards between the countries are drastically different.

9 points you should keep in mind when connecting to the internet in Russia:

• Russia censors the internet. A VPN can circumvent the censorship. Although the use of a VPN is illegal in Russia, this does not seem to be a problem, as they are currently not actively banning or restricting VPN services.
• Be aware of unsecured connections. Whenever you are transmitting sensitive data like credit card information and passwords, make sure the connection is encrypted.
• Remember that WLANs in hotels and public places are notoriously unsafe and eavesdropping is easily possible. Using a VPN ensures that the connection is always encrypted and no third party can steal your personal data. A VPN also prevents man-in-the-middle attacks on WLANs. SnowHaze VPN is one of the few VPN that allows you to override hotel VPN that has Firewall blocking VPN connections.

While internet connections and the associated data movement is one of the biggest vulnerability, there are also some things you should consider concerning the data stored on your devices:

• Always use full-disk encryption, whether you are going to Russia or not.
• Protect every device with a long and hard to guess passcode. Use a distinct one for every device.
• Temporarily delete confidential or sensitive information from your device. Police and Customs officers might have you unlock your device to search it.
• Remember that Russia is not known to be a big supporter of personal freedom. Some things that are perfectly fine in the U.S. or EU might not be in Russia. Play it safe and bring as little sensitive data as possible.
• Only bring devices you can carry with you at all times. Do not rely on hotel safes.
• Never share your devices or use USB sticks that do not belong to you.

The things mentioned above are some of the things you have to be careful about when you’re going to Russia. Check out 7 steps to keep your data safe while traveling for additional safe travel tips. Now enjoy the games and enjoy some beers and vodka.