In a recent cyber-security breach, major UK train stations have been targeted, affecting around 19 locations managed by Network Rail, including prominent hubs such as London Euston, Manchester Piccadilly, and Liverpool Lime Street. This attack, reported on 25 September, resulted in rail passengers being redirected to a website displaying Islamophobic messages, raising serious concerns about the safety of public networks.
Travel expert Magdalena Petrusic from London Tickets & Tours has issued a stark warning to commuters, urging them to remain vigilant while travelling through busy cities. She highlighted the risks associated with using public wi-fi, particularly in light of this recent incident.
“Using public wi-fi when travelling through any train station is risky,” said Ms Petrusic. “Many public wi-fi networks are unencrypted, meaning data transmitted over the network can be intercepted by hackers. This leaves sensitive information such as passwords, usernames, and personal details vulnerable.”
To mitigate these risks, Petrusic recommends that travellers use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) when connecting to public networks. A VPN encrypts data, making it more challenging for hackers to access sensitive information. However, if individuals do not have access to mobile data and must rely on public wi-fi, caution is paramount.
Petrusic also shared five essential tips for UK travellers to help them avoid falling victim to various scams:
- Wi-fi Scams: In tourist-heavy areas like London and Manchester, scammers may set up fake public wi-fi networks. When unsuspecting users connect, these scammers can steal personal information, including passwords and credit card details. It is advisable to always use personal data connections and, when necessary, employ a VPN.
- Fake Train Ticket Inspectors: Fraudsters can impersonate train staff or ticket inspectors, claiming that passengers’ tickets are invalid and demanding on-the-spot fines. Petrusic advises passengers to show their tickets only to official staff members, as legitimate ticket inspectors will be easily identifiable by their uniforms and badges. If in doubt, it’s wise to ask for identification or confirm with another staff member.
- Overpriced Taxis: Some taxi drivers may inflate prices or take longer routes to overcharge travellers unfamiliar with the area. In London, it is crucial not to enter a black cab without a functioning meter. Travellers should always use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps like Uber, which offer pre-determined prices.
- Fake Booking Websites: When booking travel arrangements, including train or flight tickets, travellers should only use official websites or trusted booking platforms such as Trainline or Booking.com. Scammers often create fraudulent sites that mimic legitimate operators, tricking customers into booking non-existent services.
- Card Skimming at Ticket Machines: Fraudsters can attach skimming devices to ticket machines to capture credit card information during transactions. Travellers are advised to be cautious of machines that appear tampered with, such as those with loose parts or unusual attachments. It is safer to use contactless payment methods or official apps to purchase tickets directly on smartphones.
With the recent cyber-attack and ongoing risks in travel environments, it is imperative for commuters to remain aware of potential scams and take proactive measures to protect themselves while on the move.