In the midst of the 2018 World Cup, the Russian Minister of Economic Development, Maxim Oreshkin, estimates that more than half a million tourists will spend around 1.6 billion dollars during the 30 days of the event. As part of the preparations, Russia progressively strengthened security measures since the beginning of 2017 including multiple restrictions on the sale of weapons and chemicals, the purchase and consumption of alcohol and increased control at train stations, subways and airports. In terms of cybersecurity, it also marked a milestone with the implementation of the "FAN ID", a passport that allows access to the eleven venues where the matches are played.
According to data from a June 2018 Ipsos report, an estimated quarter of internet users worldwide plan to watch the World Cup on mobile devices. The most digital and "mobile" World Cup event of all represents an attractive opportunity to use football content as a lure to target unsuspecting fans.
Below, Sebastian Stranieri, CEO of VU, offers a list with some details to keep in mind to maintain digital security, both for those traveling to Russia and for those who live the World Cup from home:
- VPN usage in Russia. One of the first recommendations is to avoid connecting to WiFi networks in public places, whether open or closed, because although an encrypted network is more secure than an unprotected public network, the most common protocols, WPA2 and WEP, are no longer as secure as previously thought. However, using a VPN to encrypt transmissions to and from mobile devices, the most secure option in these cases, is a practice that could mean jail time and fines of up to half a million dollars in Russia, although there are doubts as to whether the law condemns operating or using the service.
- Security of mobile devices. First of all, it is important to evaluate the possibility of leaving your personal devices at home and purchasing a pay-as-you-go in Russia. Whatever the decision, it is necessary to have the software updated to the latest version, to have two-factor authentication options enabled and other security measures such as fingerprint reader. No matter where you are, it is recommended to download only the official apps of the event and avoid participating in surveys and related sweepstakes, unless you can corroborate that they come from a reliable and secure site. If you are abroad, avoid accessing mobile banking and leave your credit cards out of sight of third parties when making payments.
- Communication and use of social networks. Alerting family and friends about potential dangers is always a good idea, bearing in mind that one of the best known scams is the lost traveler scam, in which, taking control of the victim's email account, they send desperate messages asking for urgent financial help. Avoid posting real-time content on social networks and set them to private so as not to be identified and tracked.
- For players and coaching staff members. Athletes, clubs and sports agencies have been targeted more frequently over the past two years by actors seeking to ruin their reputations or steal valuable or sensitive information about playing techniques or finances. Just as players and other members' access to social media and email should be limited, organizers may want to consider installing wireless networks for their exclusive use and encouraging staff to disconnect (off the grid) for the duration of the event.
The World Cup is for everyone, and so are these tips, to reinforce security measures, to enjoy this sporting event to the fullest and avoid headaches.
About VU - http://www.vusecurity.com/
It is a company specializing in the development of cybersecurity software, with a focus on fraud prevention and identity protection. Its mission is to deliver frictionless and secure digital experiences for both citizens and companies. It is the only company in the region aligned to best practices in international authentication, member of FIDO Alliance, OATH and OIC. Founded in 2007, it has offices in Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Ecuador, Colombia, Costa Rica, Mexico and Peru.
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