There was a time when an Afroglobal vacation meant sunshine, good food, cultural exploration, and nothing more demanding than deciding which poolside drink to order next. But times have changed. Today’s traveller — especially the Afroglobal explorer who loves to stay connected — has a new non‑negotiable: “Must have free Wi‑Fi!”

But here’s the question we rarely ask:
Is free Wi‑Fi really free — or are we paying with something far more valuable than money?

Most travellers don’t realise the hidden cost of convenience. In exchange for that “free” connection, you may be handing over your data, your privacy, and your digital security without even knowing it.

Let’s break it down.

Before You Even Take Off — You’re Already Sharing Data

You’ve researched your destination, checked the hotel reviews, and yes — confirmed the Wi‑Fi quality. You arrive at the airport and immediately connect to the free 30‑minute hotspot. Maybe you also used the coach Wi‑Fi, the bus station Wi‑Fi, or even the taxi’s hotspot.

Without realising it, you’ve already shared:

• your device details
• your browsing habits
• your location
• your connection history

And you haven’t even boarded the plane yet.

Touchdown: The First Thing You Do? Turn Your Phone On

The moment you land, your phone begins searching for a signal. You rush to your hotel, check in, and before you even unpack, you’re hunting for the Wi‑Fi password.

Once connected, you feel safe — ready to browse, post, shop, and stream. But this false sense of security is exactly what puts travellers at risk.

Many Afroglobal travellers assume that using a VPN protects them completely. Unfortunately, that’s not the full story.

Why a VPN Alone Won’t Save You

By the time you turn on your VPN, you’ve already connected to multiple networks. Your phone has already communicated with cell towers, revealing:

• your SIM details
• your service provider
• your phone number
• your device make and model
• your registered identity

This means the network already knows:

• who you are
• where you’re from
• where you’ve been

A VPN can protect your browsing — but it cannot erase the digital footprints you’ve already left behind.

A Smarter Afroglobal Solution

While no method is perfect, you can reduce your exposure.

✔️ Step 1: Use an unlocked phone

This gives you flexibility and control.

✔️ Step 2: Buy a local SIM card with data

It’s safer, cheaper, and far more secure than public Wi‑Fi.

✔️ Step 3: Avoid free Wi‑Fi — no matter how tempting

If you must use it, never access banking apps, emails, or sensitive accounts.

✔️ Step 4: Stick to websites you trust

Especially when travelling in unfamiliar regions.

These steps won’t eliminate all risks, but they will significantly reduce them.

The Threats Are Real — Don’t Make It Easy for Hackers

Cyber‑attacks targeting travellers include:

• SIM‑swap attacks
• man‑in‑the‑middle interceptions
• fake Wi‑Fi networks
• data harvesting from unsecured hotspots

Hackers don’t need much — just one careless connection can expose your entire digital identity.

Future Afroglobal Tech features will break down these attacks and teach you how to spot them before they happen.

Final Word: Travel Smart, Stay Safe, Stay Afroglobal

Your vacation should be about joy, rest, culture, and connection — not digital vulnerability. As Afroglobal travellers, we deserve to explore the world confidently and safely.

Stay aware. Stay informed. Stay protected.
And always remember — being part of the Afroglobal community means moving through the world with wisdom, pride, and power.

If you ever want more tech insights or travel‑safety guidance, I can help you explore those topics further.

By Dr Attilio Grandani CySA
http://www.InfoTrace.co.uk