The UAE is eagerly counting down the days to the upcoming public holiday, following a generous six-day break for Eid Al Adha that was enjoyed by both the public and private sectors. The wait for the next holiday won’t be long for the people in the country.
In the UAE, the Islamic New Year, also known as the Hijri New Year, symbolises the beginning of a fresh lunar year. Astronomers are anticipated to announce the precise date of the Islamic New Year, and there are predictions indicating it might fall on Wednesday, July 19.
However, according to the official list of holidays released by the UAE government, the holiday to commemorate the new year will be observed on Friday, July 21. This means that everyone will have the pleasure of a three-day weekend.
If you’re preparing to go on a short trip outside the UAE over the long weekend, it’s important to consider certain factors to ensure a cyber worry-free journey. Here are some quick tips to follow:
- Strengthen your passwords: Studies have shown that 61 percent of breaches occur due to poor credential management. Avoid this by using strong, unique passwords for each of your accounts. Additionally, enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for added security.
- Stay updated: Before you embark on your trip, ensure that all your devices are up to date with the latest software and security patches. Download applications only from reputable sources like official app stores or trusted websites.
- Review app permissions: Grant applications only the necessary permissions they require to perform their intended tasks. Avoid giving excessive access that could compromise your privacy and security.
- Backup your data: Prior to your departure, create backups of the valuable data stored on your devices. This precaution will protect you in case of device loss, theft, or other unforeseen circumstances.
- Be cautious with social media: Refrain from announcing your travel dates on social media platforms, as this can alert potential criminals of your absence from home. Additionally, avoid sharing real-time travel photos that reveal your current location, as this information can be exploited.
- Exercise caution when clicking: Take a moment to carefully evaluate links and attachments in emails, social media posts, or any other sources before clicking on them. If something seems suspicious or unfamiliar, err on the side of caution and avoid clicking.
- Disable Wi-Fi/Bluetooth connections: By default, some devices automatically connect to available Wi-Fi or Bluetooth networks. However, this can leave your device vulnerable to unauthorised access. Ensure you disable these automatic connections to prevent cybercriminals from compromising your device without your knowledge.
By following these measures, you can enhance your cybersecurity while enjoying your trip abroad.
