How to Stay Cyber Secure at the Winter Olympics

The Winter Olympics are being held this year in Pyeongchang, South Korea, and many travelers will flock there to see the spectacle, snow and sports. It's a high-profile event and could potentially be the target of attacks, including cyberattacks. 

While a large-scale cyberattack requires its own preparations and defenses, the National Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Center and the U.S. Computer Emergency Readiness Team want to keep attendees safe when it comes to their personal cybersecurity.

When attending the Olympics, most people attending will bring along a smartphone to capture memories and amazing moments, but this what will be the most vulnerable. 

If you're going, make sure to update your device's software. This way you'll be up to date on all security patches. Your phone will also run smoother, which will be useful for when you're trying to capture a selfie with the gold medalist in the bobsled competition. 

You should also reexamine all of your PINs and passwords, and make sure they're strong. Using "password" or "snow" as a password just won't cut it. Enable two-factor authentication whenever possible.

Once there, US-CERT recommends travelers turn off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth when not in use. Only turn these connections on when necessary.

But if you have to use public Wi-Fi or an otherwise insecure wireless connection, don't use any websites or apps that require a login or reveal personal information, especially financial accounts. 

"There is also the possibility that mobile or other communications will be monitored," US-CERT said, so be aware of that when you send text messages or emails out to friends and family.

To learn more US-CERT has all of their international mobile security tips compiled here.