Storing your files on an Internet-ready computer is not secure by default. Unless your hard drive is fully encrypted, consider all of your applications, documents, and pictures at risk. The easiest way to protect your data is saving it to an external portable hard drive stored in a safe or with strong password encryption. External storage also has the added benefit of not having to back up the computer for a system restore.

Online banking, shopping, and other financial transactions are never advised on publicly used computers in cyber cafes, libraries, schools or various kiosks. These transactions at home or work can also be monitored by your Internet service provider or employer as well. Contact a technical support professional to help you secure your web browser with security-based add-ins and products that limit data analytics. Purchasing a reliable VPN solution is something you should think about too.

Email is useful but can easily be an incredible security risk. Always keep email simple without specific details of your travels, personal information like date of birth, social security numbers, where you were born or family members full names and addresses. Including pictures in your email from smartphones may also pose security risks. If metadata containing location information is included your pictures, this information can be used to track you, your friends and family. Disabling “Locations Services” on your phone may help, but it’s best to keep those memories on removable media to share later.