Paris Olympics – Protect Yourself During Travel

As the Paris Olympics approaches, fans are excited about the event. Many have planned trips with pre-paid tickets, accommodations through Airbnb, pre-booked restaurants, and more. However, the question remains: how are we going to protect ourselves from hackers and scammers during this time?

As part of Veriti’s research, we have identified several risks that travellers may face during the Olympics. These risks include exposed ordering systems, unsecured accommodations, and potential scams.

Exposed Ordering Systems

During our research, we discovered that some restaurants in Paris have exposed their ordering systems to the internet. This vulnerability allows attackers to manipulate orders or access sensitive information.

In the first example, you can see an ordering system exposed directly to the internet. Attackers can easily exploit this system, potentially tampering with orders or accessing customer information.

Similarly, another restaurant’s ordering system shows a wide array of menu options that are all accessible online. This makes it a prime target for cybercriminals looking to disrupt services or steal data.

Unsecured Accommodations

When booking accommodations through platforms like Airbnb, it’s crucial to ensure that your privacy is protected. However, we found instances where cameras were installed in rental properties without proper access validation.

In one case, an apartment was equipped with cameras that could be accessed without any form of security validation, putting guests’ privacy at risk.

Public Surveillance

Even routine activities such as buying a croissant can expose you to privacy risks. Cameras installed in public places like bakeries can potentially be accessed by unauthorized individuals.

An image from a local bakery shows how surveillance cameras can monitor patrons. This raises concerns about who else might be watching and how that information could be used.

Retail Surveillance

In addition to eateries, retail stores with inadequate camera security can also be a threat. Attackers can use these cameras to observe and gather information about customers.

An image from a jewelry store demonstrates how surveillance footage can be accessible to unauthorized users, posing a significant security threat.

Pet Surveillance

For those traveling with pets, ensuring their safety is just as important. However, surveillance systems in pet-friendly accommodations can also be compromised.

An image shows a pet-friendly accommodation with exposed surveillance, highlighting the risk of unauthorized access to live feeds.

Ticket Scams

One of the biggest concerns for attendees is the legitimacy of their event tickets. The Olympics have warned about scammers selling forged tickets online.

In a Telegram channel, we found an example of fake tickets being sold, which underscores the importance of purchasing tickets from trusted sources.

Hacked Ticket Services

Beyond forged tickets, even legitimate ticket services can be compromised. Hackers have claimed to access and sell user data from ticketing platforms.

Hackers claimed to have breached Ticketmaster, exposing users’ credit card information and other personal data. This demonstrates the need for vigilance when purchasing tickets online.

Hackers have also targeted Ticketmaster, where they allegedly accessed and sold user data. Although you cant purchase tickets VIA ticket master, you can purchase a hospitality package.

As the Paris Olympics draws near, it is vital to remain aware against various cyber threats. Ensure that your bookings are secure, be cautious of public surveillance, and only purchase tickets from verified sources. By taking these precautions, you can protect yourself from hackers and scammers, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience at the Olympics.

Our research highlights the importance of cyber security awareness, especially during large events like the Olympics. Here are some best practices to help you stay safe:

• Verify the Security of Booking Platforms:
• Always use secure and reputable platforms for accommodations and ticket purchases. Check for reviews and security features.

• Be Cautious with Public Wi-Fi
• Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks for sensitive transactions. If necessary, use a VPN to protect your data.

• Monitor Your Accounts
• Regularly check your bank and credit card statements for any suspicious activities. Report any unauthorized transactions immediately.

• Update Security Settings
• Ensure that your devices and accounts have the latest security updates and strong, unique passwords.

• Stay Informed
• Keep up with the latest security advisories and news related to the event. Knowledge is your best defense against cyber threats.

By following these steps, you can minimize risks and enjoy the Paris Olympics with peace of mind. Stay safe and have a fantastic time at the games!