As the festive season prompts travel and hotel stays, NatWest has issued a crucial security advisory to its customers: always verify the hotel’s Wi-Fi network by checking the official guest book before connecting. This precaution aims to protect guests from falling victim to cyber scams targeting unsuspecting travelers.
With families journeying home, attending Christmas events, or heading abroad for seasonal breaks, vigilance is essential. Scammers often create fake Wi-Fi networks that mimic legitimate hotel connections, designed to intercept personal data from users who accidentally connect to them.
NatWest emphasizes, “Scammers sometimes set up fake hotel networks with names very similar to the genuine one,” underscoring the importance of matching the network name exactly to what’s listed in the hotel’s official guest directory.
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Moreover, the bank advises against entering sensitive personal information when using open Wi-Fi networks. Open networks are accessible to anyone, which means fraudsters can potentially monitor the data shared by connected devices. NatWest recommends limiting activities on public Wi-Fi to browsing and messaging, avoiding the use of banking apps or entering passwords.
Cybersecurity experts at Norton highlight similar risks, noting that so-called “evil twin” networks are designed to trick users by imitating legitimate hotspot names with subtle differences, such as slight changes in capitalization or spelling. Connecting to these malicious networks enables criminals to intercept internet traffic, including login credentials and financial information.
Many public Wi-Fi hotspots transmit data unencrypted and in plain text, making it vulnerable to cybercriminals equipped with the right tools to eavesdrop on online activity. This heightens the risk of sensitive data theft, notably when using banking services.
Beyond Wi-Fi safety, NatWest also advises caution while dining out during holiday travels. Customers should pay in local currency when possible and be alert to scams involving inflated bills or unexpected charges. Checking restaurant reviews beforehand, confirming prices before ordering, eating only what was ordered, and requesting an itemized receipt can help avoid these pitfalls. Be mindful of additional fees like water or cover charges.
By following these practical tips, travelers can enjoy their festive season with greater peace of mind, staying safe from cyber threats and hospitality scams alike.