Home » EUROPE » UK Holidaymakers, Beware: How Fake Hotspots And Cybercrime Are On The Rise In Popular European Travel Destinations
Published on
October 19, 2025
As UK holidaymakers head to Europe for winter sun and city breaks, a growing threat of cybercrime is emerging, with fake Wi-Fi hotspots putting personal data at serious risk. Since mobile operators reintroduced roaming charges in the EU following Brexit, many Brits are opting for free public Wi-Fi networks in cafes, airports, and hotels to avoid costly data fees. However, these free networks often serve as bait for hackers who set up fake hotspots mimicking legitimate venues, allowing them to access sensitive personal information. This increase in cybercrime highlights the need for travellers to be extra cautious when using public Wi-Fi, as what seems like a simple convenience could end up compromising their privacy and security.
With many UK holidaymakers heading abroad for some much-needed winter sun, a new warning has emerged urging them to stay vigilant against rising cybercrime tactics that are targeting unsuspecting travellers.
Experts are highlighting the increasing risk of ‘snooping scams’ within the EU, as more Brits opt to save money by using free Wi-Fi in public spaces. The surge in cybercrime comes as mobile phone providers, following changes to data policies in the EU, have made it easier for fraudsters to access personal data, particularly when holidaymakers connect to unsecured networks.
Since the UK left the European Union in 2021, mobile operators have no longer been obligated to provide free data roaming on the continent, reintroducing surcharges for mobile usage, including data, calls, and texts. As a result, many travellers are turning to free public Wi-Fi networks at airports, cafes, restaurants, and hotels to stay connected without incurring hefty roaming charges. However, this has opened the door for cybercriminals to exploit unsuspecting users.
According to travel industry experts, this shift in consumer behaviour has made holidaymakers increasingly vulnerable to fake hotspot scams. The problem is particularly significant for the millions of Brits who take more than 60 million trips to Europe every year. These fake hotspots, set up by hackers, are designed to look like legitimate public Wi-Fi networks, tricking people into connecting and unknowingly sharing their personal information.
Fraudsters commonly create networks that mimic the names of popular public Wi-Fi providers, such as “Airport_Free_Wi-Fi” or “Cafe_Guest.” Once connected to these networks, users unknowingly expose their login credentials, financial information, and other sensitive data to criminals, who can then sell or misuse this information for malicious purposes. It’s a warning that many free Wi-Fi hotspots, often seen as convenient and harmless, can actually pose a significant risk.
The rise in cybercrime in recent years has been alarming. According to Cybercrime Magazine, the number of cybercrime victims has tripled over the past decade, with a 69% increase during the COVID-19 pandemic alone. The latest tactic – fake hotspots – adds another layer to the growing list of travel-related scams that target unsuspecting holidaymakers.
For tourists looking to safeguard their data while travelling abroad, experts recommend installing a Virtual Private Network (VPN) on their devices before embarking on any trip. A VPN creates a secure, encrypted connection between the user’s device and the internet, ensuring that any data sent or received remains private and protected from hackers. By using a VPN, travellers can keep their browsing activity hidden, preventing cybercriminals from accessing personal information even when connected to unsecured public networks.
Despite its protective benefits, using a VPN requires some additional precautions. Travellers are advised to research the laws of the country they’re visiting, as there are some nations that restrict or ban VPN use altogether. Although this issue is not widespread in Europe, it’s still advisable to verify the local regulations before using a VPN in certain regions.
While the use of a VPN can provide an extra layer of protection, experts stress that it’s still important to be cautious when using public Wi-Fi networks while abroad. If a Wi-Fi network looks suspicious or doesn’t require a password, it’s best to avoid connecting. Additionally, enabling two-factor authentication for important accounts such as banking and email can add an extra line of defence against unauthorized access.
The growing risks posed by cybercrime highlight the importance of staying aware and taking preventative measures when travelling abroad. As winter sun holidays and city breaks become more popular, it’s crucial for travellers to understand the potential risks and take steps to safeguard their personal information. Cybercrime is a rapidly evolving threat, but with the right tools and precautions, holidaymakers can ensure their travel experience remains safe and secure.
While connecting to public Wi-Fi can be an easy and cost-effective way to stay connected while abroad, it’s essential for travellers to be cautious of the dangers posed by fake hotspots and data snooping scams. Installing a VPN on your device and remaining vigilant when choosing Wi-Fi networks can significantly reduce the risk of falling victim to cybercrime during your trip. By staying informed and using the right security tools, travellers can enjoy their holidays without compromising their privacy or personal data.
