With contributions by Claudia Gualdi
As the travel landscape becomes more interconnected and reliant on digital technologies, privacy violations are emerging as a significant concern. The use of biometric systems, connected devices and digital platforms in travel is growing rapidly, yet the increasing integration of these technologies has introduced new risks to personal privacy and security. Female travellers, in particular, face heightened concerns due to both gender-specific issues and the vulnerability created by the growing digital footprint they leave behind.
In this March travel outlook, we explore the risks of privacy breaches during travel and provide insights on how to ensure the safety and security of female travellers.
What Are Data Privacy Violations During Travel?
Privacy violations occur when personal data is collected, used or shared without proper consent, often leading to compromised security or the misuse of sensitive information. These violations can happen in several scenarios:
- Unsecured networks: Public Wi-Fi in airports or hotels can be a goldmine for cybercriminals looking to intercept travellers’ data.
- Biometric systems: Airports and other travel-related venues increasingly rely on biometric technologies for quicker check-ins. However, these systems often collect more data than necessary, sometimes without explicit consent.
- Connected devices: Smartphones, wearables and other connected devices, when not properly secured, can expose personal data, creating opportunities for hacking.
- Third-party platforms: Data shared with third-party travel platforms, such as booking sites and ride-sharing apps, can be vulnerable if those platforms don’t prioritise data protection.
How Cybersecurity Threatens Traveller Data Privacy
The rise of cyberattacks targeting travellers’ data is a serious concern. With more devices, platforms and services linked to the internet, cybercriminals now have multiple entry points to access sensitive data. Common attack methods include:
- Phishing: Scammers use fake emails and websites to steal login credentials or credit card information.
- Malware: Malicious software can infect devices and steal data.
- Data breaches: Even leading travel companies face cybersecurity risks, as shown by the Marriott breach impacting over 300M customers (2014–2020). Marriott will pay $52 million, strengthen security measures and allow U.S. customers to request data deletion.
Female travellers may face even more security challenges due to targeted attacks and the misuse of their data. Cybercriminals are increasingly using stolen information to perpetrate fraud, identity theft and even harassment.
Protecting Female Travellers’ Data
Privacy violations can disproportionately affect female travellers, particularly in the case of gender-based harassment and the misuse of personal data for exploitation. Women travelling alone or in unfamiliar locations face additional risks, making privacy protection measures even more crucial.
Here are some strategies to help ensure privacy and security:
- Use secure travel platforms: Choose travel platforms and apps that offer encrypted communication and data protection.
- VPNs: Use Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to encrypt internet connection and protect personal information from prying eyes.
- Encrypted communication: Use encrypted messaging apps to ensure that communications, especially sensitive information like travel plans or accommodations, remain private.
- Protection against hidden cameras: Incidents like hidden cameras in Airbnb rentals and cruise ship cabins are not a concern everywhere, but female travellers should be vigilant. There are apps available that help detect hidden cameras in hotel rooms and rental properties.
Travel Management Companies (TMCs) and travel suppliers can play a critical role in protecting their clients’ data by implementing robust cybersecurity measures and educating travellers on data privacy best practices.
Trust and Confidence in the Travel Industry’s Digital Landscape
The growing number of privacy violations has heightened concerns and travellers need assurances that the companies they rely on respect their privacy.
To build trust, travel companies must:
- Be transparent about their data usage policies and how they protect personal information.
- Ensure compliance with data protection laws like GDPR and communicate how personal data is safeguarded.
- Offer clear communication about privacy policies and the measures taken to keep travellers’ personal data secure.
Travel suppliers and TMCs can build stronger relationships with female travellers by offering secure, private experiences and ensuring that privacy is always a priority.
Safeguarding Data Privacy in the Future of Travel
As digitalisation continues to shape the future of travel, the risk of privacy violations grows. However, by adopting strong cybersecurity measures, ensuring transparency in data handling when it comes to privacy, there’s no room for compromise.
For a secure travel experience, businesses must prioritise privacy protection for female travellers. Partnering with trusted travel management providers ensures robust data security and proactive risk mitigation.
