International travel is often an exciting opportunity for cultural exploration or a necessity for conducting business. Either way, it is quite easy to focus on the entertaining or professional aspects of the trip and overlook the cybersecurity matters, which may lead to a loss of important data or money. In this article, you will find seven essential tips OctaFX prepared for international travellers.

Keep your devices secure

Use strong passwords and lock your laptop, phone, and other devices when not in use. You should also be cautious when using public Wi-Fi in airports, hotels, restaurants and other places. These networks can often be insecure and leave you vulnerable to hacking attempts.

There are several types of cyberattacks that involve public Wi-Fi networks. For instance, some networks do not use encryption, meaning that hackers can intercept the data transmitted over them. Hackers sometimes set up their own Wi-Fi networks that sound the same as legitimate ones. Once you are connected, the hacker may steal your personal information or infect your computer with malware. The third type of Wi-Fi cyberattack involves criminals tricking you into downloading malicious software by implying that it is something you must do to get access to a free public network.

Avoid using publicly accessible computers and USB charging stations

Computers that you can use in hotels, business centres, airports, and other public spaces might be infected with malware that can steal your credentials or credit card information by capturing keystrokes. Do not enter any sensitive information on such devices. If you absolutely have to log in to some of your accounts, do it in incognito mode and log out of the accounts afterwards.

Public USB charging stations might be just as unsafe to use, with criminals putting malware or spyware on them to then get access to your finances and personal data. To protect your devices from this threat, use USB data blockers—they are designed to physically block data pins but do not interrupt the charging.

Backup important data

When travelling, backup copies of your passport and other travel documents, as well as financial and personal information. Store your backup data on an encrypted external hard drive or in a secure cloud storage service, and make sure to update it regularly. This way, if your devices are lost or stolen, you will have a backup of all your important information.

Keep software up-to-date

Keep all software up-to-date for all of your devices, as the updates usually contain important security patches that make it harder for hackers to exploit their vulnerabilities. Update your software before travelling to avoid using potentially corrupted networks during the trip.

Beware of skimming

Skimming is a type of theft in which a device is attached to an ATM or other electronic payment system to steal credit card information. Skimming is a particular risk when travelling, as criminals often target tourists who may be less aware of the dangers. To protect yourself from skimming when travelling, avoid any suspicious devices involved with your electronic payments. If you need to use an ATM, choose the one located at a bank office.

Be cautious of QR codes

Criminals may create fake QR codes that look similar to legitimate ones and then place them on posters, signs, or even menus in cafés. When scanned, these fake QR codes can install malware on your device or direct you to a phishing website where your personal and financial information can be stolen. Be cautious when scanning codes from unknown sources, and try to avoid scanning them if there is a safe option of getting the same information.

Research tour operators and accommodations

Unscrupulous operators offer seemingly legitimate tours and activities at a low cost. Some of those offerings may be either subpar or virtually non-existent. To protect yourself from fraudulent tour operators when travelling, research the company and the tour beforehand, read reviews from previous customers, and only book through reputable sources. Some accommodations even on generally reliable websites turn out to be fake or have artificially inflated ratings, so make your own research for every booking to ensure your stay is not ruined by fraudsters.

It’s essential to take proactive steps to secure your personal and financial information while travelling. Whether it’s keeping your devices secure, protecting your online accounts, or being mindful of your physical surroundings, these cybersecurity tips can help ensure that your travels are safe and enjoyable.

Trekking in the winter and the summer is a totally different experience. It’s important to prepare for your hikes in preparation because it might come in handy whenever and wherever you are. Studying a few winter hiking guidelines can help you get ready for any hike you plan to go on while staying warm and safe. Whether you’re walking through the snow outside or simply admiring the scenery, this winter hiking advice will surely make your experience enjoyable. All of the factors that contribute to a trek in the great outdoors being secure can be met with the right equipment, tips, clothing, and attitude for winter hiking.

“Cold weather might be a problem on any hiking trip at any time of year, not just in the dead of winter. Depending on your location and the area you’re hiking in, you may come across chilly weather at any time of year, which might make your journey uncomfortable or, worst yet, result in a significant injury or disease,” says Gayatri Mohanty.

Check the weather and trail conditions in advance

Being aware of the weather is one of the most essential winter hiking tips because it can affect the trail by covering it with new snow, which can be quite confusing while you are hiking. Knowing the weather conditions also makes it easier to avoid hiking when there are strong winds, chances of heavy snowfall, or poor visibility. It is therefore advisable to be aware of the anticipated temperatures and wind speed ahead. You can always hike safely in the snow if you follow our advice.

Maintain constant hydration

When trekking in the cold, always make sure you have an insulated bottle and a bottle sleeve with you. If you do this while hiking in bitterly cold weather, the water won’t freeze. If you forget to bring an insulated bottle on your trek or don’t have one, you can also use a spare sock or wrap the water bottle in a towel to keep it warm and insulated.

Carry the proper winter hiking equipment

If your upcoming trip includes hiking paths, you must pack the appropriate winter hiking equipment. When hiking, wearing the appropriate shoes, bag, jacket, and even jeans can make a big impact. The most important thing to remember when trekking in the snow is to keep yourself warm. You can begin by donning a base layer, followed by a fleece jacket that serves as your intermediate layer, and finally a jacket or down jacket that will aid in insulation and safeguard your body from the cold. Softshell trousers are typically advised when trekking in the winter because they are great at maintaining body heat at all times and shielding you from severe winds and snow.

Pack extra equipment

A fire starter, first aid kit, pocket knife, emergency blanket, waterproof matches, and a waterproof backpack are a few other items you can bring with you on your trek. Bringing an extra kit on your hike will always come in handy and be beneficial for surviving in adverse weather. When you are trekking in snow, all of these things will make a huge impact. Since trekking in snow can be slick and slushy when the snow is melting, they also give you protection and a better grip on the snow.

For your winter hike, bring snacks

During your hikes, it’s critical to keep yourself hydrated and energised at all times. Your body often needs twice as many calories to stay warm and hydrated while trekking in the winter as it does at other times of the year. In order to keep energised at all times, be sure to pack yourself some meals that are both very nutritional and protein-rich. Organic pumpkin seeds, granola bars, protein bars, and even your own homemade trail mix are all suitable for carrying as cold-weather snacks.

Consistently keep your feet warm

While snowshoeing, it’s crucial to keep your feet warm. Make sure you include several pairs of wool-based hiking socks that will keep moisture off of your damp skin. In the event that it gets wet while you’re hiking, it dries rapidly and also aids in heat insulation. When trekking, snow is kept off of your feet at all times by donning hiking boots that go up to the ankle. A pair of gaiters, which save your feet from getting buried in the snow, is another item you can get. As you’ll be spending a lot of time in your boots during your winter excursions, it’s ideal to wear comfy ones.

Hike during the daytime

When we hike on our trails in the summer, we often try to stay out of the sun. In contrast, hiking in the winter is completely different. To feel the warmth of the sun in the chilly months, we would basically do anything. You’ll be able to stay warm and have a better time hiking if you plan your hikes for when the sun is out and blazing brightly in the sky. Due to the drop in temperature in the evening, it is also recommended that you schedule your hikes so that you begin early and finish before the sun sets.

When it comes to layering in winter, there aren’t any hard and fast rules in fashion. However, if you are beginning to start layering clothes, you may need a few tips to proceed. And as you become familiar with it, you can experiment with different choices. The thing with winter fashion is you don’t get the luxury of showing a lot of skin. If you are thinking of layering clothes, pair them smartly. In simple words, go stylish, not bulky. This article will help you teach how to style layers in winter!

Don’t forget winter basics

While shopping for winter basics, always remember how you would build different looks and invest according to that. Our eyes often catch glimpses of quirky pieces, but sometimes they wouldn’t go with the whole outfit. That’s where winter basics show their power. For basics, you can go with oversized sweaters, as these are in trend; there are cardigans or pullovers which you can easily pair with a denim button-up blouse.

Combine different fabrics and colours

Try combining different types of fabrics and textures in one outfit. For example, you can pair a lightweight silk-knit shirt of a classic tone with a sequined blazer and create a whole fancy party or holiday look.

Put on a cosy sweater

Put on a cashmere-silk blend pullover that will keep you protected without overheating. Purchase comfortable pullovers that can go well with anything, and you can wear them easily.

Add an oversized coat

Adding an oversized coat on top of your layered winter basics looks super stunning. Oversized coats can also be donned over dresses. Add a pair of leather boots to complete your overall look.

Combine different lengths

Combine clothes of different lengths to look elegant during winter. For example, styling a pencil skirt of size up to mid-calf with knee-high boots is a great stylish combination. Adding an oversized coat makes the whole look fantastic.

Accessorising

Scarves are beautiful winter accessories that go with all fashion ensembles. Invest in a faux-fur Fendi scarf, which will give you an edgy and warm look. Besides scarves; you can also accessorise your look with a hat, handbag or jewellery that complements your look.

Once you’ve become familiar with how to layer during winter, you can easily begin mixing patterns, playing with textures, and going monochromatic and colour-blocking. Make sure all your clothes fit you well and bring out your personality.

Do not be paranoid, enjoy the outdoors as they revive you holistically. Avoid strenuous activity or extreme terrain, advises Dr Atul Mathur, Executive Director-Interventional Cardiology and Chief of Cath Lab, Fortis Escorts Heart Institute

Just because you have had a cardiac event — be it heart attack, heart failure, stroke, coronary artery disease (CAD), cardiac arrhythmia (irregular heart rate), a heart surgery or stenting — doesn’t mean you cannot go on a holiday. Of course, strenuous travel is ruled out for people who have just had a procedure, intervention or developed a condition. For this lot of people, you must sit out and stabilise before venturing out. Others just have to get their health status reviewed before they proceed on a vacation, plan their days, identify triggers and stressors and go prepared with a medical kit. All everybody needs to do is to follow the advisory and not over-exert themselves. And do not forget to carry your latest heart reports. Keep them handy so that no time is lost should there be an emergency.

PRE-TRAVEL ROUTINE

Consult your cardiologist and run a fresh series of tests like ECG, stress tests, TMT and echocardiography. If you experience any abnormal discomfort while doing these tests or while walking, such as breathlessness or chest pain, report them to your doctor. Do not travel till he/she clears you.

IN THE HILLS

Most cardiac patients are under the impression that while the beach is a safe option, they cannot travel to the hills. We are often asked a particular question, “Can I go up to 10,000 feet, say Leh, with stents and bypass?” Even normal persons can have severe breathlessness on reaching high altitude if they start exerting before getting acclimatised. The same rule applies to all cardiac patients with normal heart function. Those with impaired heart function, however, need proper evaluation by their physician before planning a trip to Leh. If they do not qualify, the Himalayas at lower altitudes are no less beautiful.

If you are in a high altitude terrain, you should take Diamox over and above the prescribed medication. Also, keep yourself informed about the nearest medical facility. Seaside is always considered a better option as the fresh breeze airs out your lungs and oxygenates you well enough.

TELEMEDICINE OPTIONS

Teleconsult is legally allowed in our country and can be arranged with your own physician or other sources. Several wearable devices like Apple Watch can monitor the heart rate but the most important factor is to monitor your SpO2 levels.

INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL

Most cardiac patients can travel safely. Only those with weak hearts and ongoing active conditions should seek prior screening by a physician. If you are on a long haul flight, take plenty of fluids and frequent walks down the aisle. This eliminates the possibility of developing venous clots. It is for the same reason that you need to flex and move your ankle joints. Make sure you are carrying your travel insurance.

TAKE YOUR MEDICINE ON TIME

No matter what time zone you are in, please take your medication as prescribed at the right time and maintain the gap between doses. You can always reset your watch to India time to follow this regime.

Take a blood pressure monitor with you. Don’t forget to carry your medicines, including emergency ones, and keep some extra strips just in case you’ve had to overstay for some reason. Do not skip medicines while travelling.

Do not be paranoid, enjoy the outdoors as they revive you holistically. However, do not ignore chest pain, breathlessness or exhaustion and seek the opinion of your doctor immediately.