Taking a flight this holiday season? Here’s one thing you should not do.
For many travelers, printing your boarding pass is part of the travel routine. But after having it scanned and handed back to you, what do you do with it? Some people use it as a bookmark, others leave it in the seat back pocket and some just throw it away.
According to Forbes, that slip of paper is everything hackers need to ruin your life. If you look at a boarding pass, it contains your name, booking reference number and frequent flyer number. That information, plus basic reset your password questions, is everything a hacker would need to take over your frequent flyer account.
Experts say the travel industry is the second-most attacked industry right behind financial services. That’s because frequent flyer miles are another form of currency. The dark web is full of sites offering cash for miles. Or hackers can take those miles and turn them into gift cards or cash.
You wouldn’t leave behind your bank statement. Take the same care with your boarding pass.
About Brian
CBS News Radio national business journalist Brian Banmiller has spent more than 40 years in the news industry, covering business, politics and the economy on television, radio and in print. Currently, his “Banmiller on Business” reports are delivered to an audience of millions nationwide.
Popular Reports, Articles & Videos
Latest CBS Radio Reports
Top Articles
Top Videos
Brian's diverse experience and unique perspectives combine with his pleasant and personal manner to engage audiences on many levels. From his days as an Air Force squadron commander to his long career as a business journalist, commentator and public speaker, Brian's approach to speaking and presentation is thought-provoking, inspirational and creative.
"The Technology Tornado: Media & Communications in the Modern Era"
See highlights from Brian's recent Ernst & Young "Continuing Education Conference" speech and hear directly from conference attendees.
Phoenix Convention Center
August 28th, 2019
Additional speech samples / videos are available upon request. Contact Brian to learn more.
