This question is for both local and international travel and primarily pertains to internet cafes
Some blog posters have indicated that at some internet cafes they may be "counting your keystrokes and getting your personal information" such a credit card and bank account numbers. I normally use my own notebook or laptop at internet cafes but have also used their PCs when I could not hook up wireless. Is this "keystroke counting" a major problem, how does it work and what should I look for at the internet cafe? Also is this done in the US as well as foreign counties? If on wireless at their location is it possible they are "capturing" my data even when I use my own notebook or laptop?
Reply to this Hello Bill 😊
Yeah, if the computers in the internet cafes are not secure enough, then key loggers in Russia, China and anywhere can get things like your credit card details. I think they remotely install a program on the computers in internet cafes, that records the key strokes in the hopes that they will score something like a credit card number or something else that they can use.
...what should I look for at the internet cafe? ...
Some internet cafes have a system that removes and reinstalls all software after each user. Those are safer, but there would still be a small risk.
I personally would not book anything using a credit card at an internet cafe. If I had a laptop, I would certainly wait until I can use it again, rather than use the internet cafe PCs.
Also is this done in the US as well as foreign counties?
I dont see why not. They will do it anywhere they can gain access to unsecure PCs.
If on wireless at their location is it possible they are "capturing" my data even when I use my own notebook or laptop?
It is possible, so make sure you have all your anti spyware and security programmes updated. Not everybody knows how to secure their PC for use on the internet, so make sure you do know and keep it well maintained.
Mel
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