Cybersecurity Experts Caution About iGaming Use During Holiday Travel

Cybersecurity experts warn against online gaming during holiday travel

Cybersecurity experts are warning travelers to think twice before using public Wi-Fi this holiday season.

A recently published study by Forbes Advisor provides detailed information on the risks inherent in using public Wi-Fi.

Last year, market research firm OnePoll surveyed 1,000 adults who use public Wi-Fi during flights. The poll found that only 17% of people said they felt unsafe using the internet provided by public networks. Despite a strong personal sense of security, the research team reports that more than four in 10 people (41%) have had their data breached while traveling.

These numbers demonstrate a disconnect between the actual risks of using public Wi-Fi and the perceived safety of travelers, indicating a potential gap in awareness or understanding of cybersecurity threats in such environments. ” writes financial expert Katherine Haan in Forbes Advisor. -Report.

Respondents said they access public Wi-Fi for a variety of reasons, the most common being to reduce cellular data consumption. Respondents said it is important to stay connected while traveling, whether at work, dealing with financial matters, staying in touch with friends and family through social media, or staying entertained through online gaming.

"Despite the common risks associated with public Wi-Fi, surprisingly, most travelers still feel safe," Haan continued. “These findings not only provide insights into current behavior but also highlight the need for enhanced protective measures as we journey through digital connectivity.”

A treasure trove of data about iGaming and online sports betting

The U.S. gaming industry is on high cybersecurity alert after two high-profile attacks this year against MGM Resorts and Caesars Entertainment.

Cybersecurity experts say casinos and online gaming platforms have become attractive targets for cybercriminals. This is because companies hold vast amounts of sensitive data from millions of customers. This data includes Personally Identifiable Information (PII) such as driver's licenses, Social Security numbers, bank account and credit card information.

Digital security firm Aura says public Wi-Fi networks typically have far fewer cybersecurity protections than home networks. Aura officials said that in places like airports, skilled hackers can infect "other people's devices" with malware, obtain personal information, steal passwords, monitor sensitive data and conduct ransomware attacks.

A common scheme used by hackers is to set up a malicious hotspot with a name similar to the actual Wi-Fi in a public place. If you connect to their hotspot, they can easily intercept your data and sometimes even take over your device.

Another scheme is called a man-in-the-middle (MITM) attack. According to Aura, this involves criminals breaking into the network and intercepting data being transmitted between connected devices and WiFi routers. MITM may intercept the credentials when you enter them.

Aircraft Wi-Fi is not secure

OnePoll finds that your data is most likely to be at risk at the airport or while flying. Of those who said their data was mistakenly accessed, 67% said they believed the cyber incident occurred while in flight, and 51% said they believed their data was obtained at the airport.

Other places where Wi-Fi crime occurs include hotels, public transportation such as trains and buses, restaurants and retail stores.

So, before you open up an online sports betting app to place another sports bet before boarding a plane this holiday season, it’s best to place your bet using your device’s mobile data rather than a public Wi-Fi connection.