7 digital habits to adopt this summer (without becoming paranoid)
You’re switching off the laptop, packing the suitcase, and heading to the beach, the mountains or the countryside. But one question often goes unasked: are your data going on holiday too?
In summer, digital vigilance tends to melt away like an ice cream in the sun. Unsecured connections, unattended devices, hasty clicks on dodgy SMS… The summer season is prime time for cybercriminals.
No worries! Here are 7 simple and effective habits to enjoy a cyber-safe summer.
1. Back up before you take off
Before heading out, make a full backup of your data (photos, documents, contacts). In case of loss, theft, or crash, you’ll be glad to recover everything when you’re back.
2. Free Wi-Fi… could cost you dearly
Airports, cafés, campsites – free Wi-Fi is everywhere. And that’s great news for hackers.
Avoid connections without a VPN, never carry out sensitive tasks (banking, purchases) on public Wi-Fi, and prefer your mobile data (4G/5G) if possible.
3. Don’t get phished while on holiday
“Your parcel is waiting”, “Your account is locked”, “Last-minute deal”… Phishing doesn’t take a holiday. Be wary of alarming SMS or emails. Don’t click, check first.
4. Kids need cyber protection too
More screen time for kids in summer? Keep an eye on the apps they download, restrict unnecessary permissions, and consider installing parental controls.
5. Social media: delay your posts
Announcing to the world that you’re far from home, geotag included? Not the best idea… Post your memories once you’re back, or at least avoid signalling your absence.
6. Blue screen, scary message: don’t fall for it
In 2024, fake tech support scams became the third most common threat in France. Never call the numbers shown in an alert message. Restart, block, report – and stay calm.
7. After the holidays: run a digital check-up
Scan your devices, change key passwords, and review unusual account activity. A few minutes of digital housekeeping can set you up with peace of mind for the new season.
BONUS: Taking your work laptop with you?
Remote work, emergency support, finalising documents… If you’re taking your work computer with you:
- Inform your IT team or helpdesk.
- Use a VPN to access company files.
- Do not store unencrypted files locally.
- Always log out after each session.
Download our summer cyber checklist
To stay on track, print or share this summer security checklist.
This summer, recharge your batteries – not your risks.
Enjoy. Unplug. But stay alert.
And if in doubt, remember: the best defence is not to click too quickly.
Wishing everyone a happy (and cyber-secure) holiday!
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