Traveling is exciting, but it also comes with risks we often overlook. While we worry about delayed flights or lost luggage, the real danger might be waiting at home or lurking on our phones.
A Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey conducted revealed that 55% of Filipino adults fear burglary when they leave home, and crime victimisation has slightly eased but remains elevated compared to 2024 averages. At the same time, cybercrime is skyrocketing. Phishing attacks are becoming more sophisticated, especially when you’re on the move. Fake airline or hotel emails asking you to “confirm booking details” or “update payment information” can lead to identity theft or financial loss.
For frequent travelers, this means one thing: you need to protect both your home and your digital identity before you fly.
Technology: Your first layer of protection
Start with the basics at your home. Smart locks, cameras, and alarms are becoming more common in the Philippines, but adoption is still low compared to other countries. If you already have smart devices like doorbells or cameras, update their passwords and firmware. An outdated gadget can be as risky as an unlocked door.
Next, secure your gadgets. Update your phone’s software, enable two-factor authentication, and disable auto-connect for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Treat your phone like your house, lock it up before you go.
Why does this matter? Crime incidents happen all year round. In the Philippines, a 17.45% drop in index crimes was recorded by the Philippine National Police (PNP) in 2025, , but incidents of robbery only decreased by 6.86%, and thefts barely declined by 0.27%. This shows that opportunistic crimes, like breaking into a home or stealing a device left unattended, are still very much a threat.
Cybercrime adds another layer of risk. The Philippine National Police Anti-Cybercrime Group (PNP-ACG) warns that public Wi-Fi in airports, hotels, and cafés is a hotspot for hacking and account takeovers. Even GCash issued an advisory urging users to avoid free Wi-Fi when accessing financial apps. If you must connect, use a VPN for added security.
Process: Simple habits that keep you safe
Technology helps, but habits matter just as much. Before you leave, run through this quick checklist:
- Lock all doors and windows.
- Turn on alarms and cameras.
- Set up remote monitoring so you can check your home anytime.
- Unplug non-essential electronics to prevent fire hazards and save energy.
- Leave a light on or use smart lighting to make the house look occupied.
- Secure valuables in a safe or hidden spot.
- Inform a trusted neighbor or friend if you’ll be away for an extended time.
Online safety needs the same care. Don’t just connect to any Wi-Fi at airports or hotels. Confirm the network name and avoid banking or shopping on public Wi-Fi. Use mobile data or a VPN instead. These small steps can stop hackers from stealing your data.
People: Awareness is your best defence
Even the best technology won’t protect you if you’re careless, especially when traveling. Cybercriminals and scammers often take advantage of people who overshare on social media or let their guard down. Posting your itinerary online or leaving devices unsecured can expose both your home and your digital identity. In fact, a TransUnion report revealed that 74% of Filipinos were targeted by fraud in 2024, and 34% lost money, with an average loss of ₱44,700 per victim.
To stay safe, keep your travel plans private and avoid announcing them on social media. Disable geotagging on your posts so strangers can’t track your location and share your itinerary only with people you trust. Be vigilant when booking accommodations, fake websites and suspicious emails are common traps. If a deal looks too good to be true, it probably is. Also, never leave your phone or laptop unattended in public places. Even QR codes in airports and restaurants can lead to scams, so think twice before scanning. These simple habits can make the difference between a secure trip and a costly mistake.
Secure today, travel confidently
Home security and cybersecurity go hand in hand. Whether it’s a thief breaking into your house or a hacker breaking into your accounts, both rely on one thing: lack of protection.
Before your next trip, lock your home like a fortress and secure your devices like a vault. In today’s world, safety isn’t just about where you’re going; it’s about what you leave behind and what you carry with you.
Start now by reviewing your home security, updating your passwords, and traveling with peace of mind. And don’t keep these tips to yourself, share them with your family before your next trip.
As published in The Manila Times, dated 24 December 2025
