internet cafeInternet Cafes have constantly lost their popularity in the last decade. Still, when you are traveling or you don’t have the possibility to access your personal (portable) computer, Internet Cafes are the first option. Regardless what your need is that makes you enter one of those, as a surfer that knows a few issues about privacy and Internet security, you can’t help noticing the variety of ocasions to expose personal data in a dangerous manner. It’s not about paranoia, but the truth is that many valuable data can make the point of this conversation: bank account numbers, social security numbers, account passwords and personal emails. Doesn’t that sound tempting yet?

Besides the viruses or Trojan application that can be waiting for you on an Internet Café station, the worst type of danger is represented by key logging applications, or shortly - keyloggers. The prejudice caused by keyloggers used with bad intentions reaches way beyond damaging your files on a memory stick, because if your bank account number is in question, the theft can be a consistent one.

Here are some tips to simply avoid that situation. Some of them are more desirable than the others, but the important thing is that alternatives exist:

internet cafe clubTip1. Check for any type of hardware keyloggers. These are visible and easy to remove, although if you spot one I doubt you will want to continue your Internet surfing hour there.

Tip2. Prepare your USB stick with applications that run directly from it – especially the security applications.

Tip3. Anti-Keyloggers and KeyScrambler applications are a solution when trying to avoid bad intended aimed keyloggers.

Tip4. You can bring your own computer. Let’s say you are not disturbed by carrying it with you, or maybe you have a really nice and light notebook. In that way, you only access the wireless network and presumably you have your own safety software installed.

internet cafe laptopTip5. Change on a regular basis the passwords to your personal accounts, and also make sure you use a strong password each time and at least one safety question.

Tip6. Online Banking should always come with OTP – One Time Passwords. This, I think, is the safest way to protect your account and still enjoy the advantages of Online Banking while you are traveling.

Tip7. Use your Mail Forwarding option existent in your email account. This is a really nice method of reading your mail, through a temporary email account. In the worst case, only a few of your emails, and not your main email account, can be compromised like this.

So be prepared and try to guard as well as you can your personal data. Like I said, without being paranoid, you must be aware of the existing dangers and assure the security basics when it comes to your private digital property.