Introduction:

We have grown very dependent on our technology devices, so it’s natural to want to take them with us when we travel. However, traveling with phones, tablets, or laptop computers exposes them to more threats than normal including liquid and physical damage, theft, loss, and cyber attacks. Planes, cars, trains, and hotels are technology-hostile environments. The following recommendations are gleaned from millions of miles of business and personal travel as well as customer experiences.

Liquid Damage:

Don’t put a water bottle in the same backpack or carryon as your phone, tablet, or laptop computer. Seems obvious, but we see the consequences all the time. Water bottles are prone to leaking anyway, but on planes, the pressure changes significantly increase the probabilities.

Don’t have drinks and your devices on airplane seatback trays at the same time. Turbulence or someone accidentally bumping into the seat or tray can cause liquid damage.

Liquid spills cause costly damage to devices or outright kill them almost immediately due to short circuits or, after a time delay, due to corrosion.

If your device was exposed to liquid and was turned off, do not turn it on. If it was on, turn it off immediately, and don’t turn it back on. You can wipe off the exterior, but don’t try to dry it out with rice or a hairdryer. Do not try to test it. Bring it in as soon as possible for a professional to try to save it.

Physical Damage:

Checked luggage is exposed to extreme handling shocks, cold, heat, and rain. Carryon luggage falls out of overhead bins all the time. Devices get cooked in very hot cars or used outside in bright sunlight. When you’re travelling, before you put valuable technology anywhere, think about its safety, and don’t expose it to unnecessary risk.

Theft:

Leaving your valuable devices unattended in airports, cars, or hotel rooms or putting them in checked luggage is an invitation to thieves. Keep them with you at all times, and be vigilant.

Loss:

Travelers absent-mindedly leave valuable devices in airplanes, trains, taxis, rental cars, buses, hotels, and restaurants. Sometimes, with significant effort and/or expense, they get them back, and sometimes they don’t. If you’re travelling for business, your schedule may be hectic and your surroundings unfamiliar. It’s pretty easy to get distracted. If you’re travelling for pleasure, the whole point is to relax in unfamiliar surroundings. It’s pretty easy to lose focus. When you’re travelling, make a special effort to keep track of your technology.

Cyber attacks:

Using unfamiliar networks is an unfortunate fact of life for travelers. Most public networks are not very secure. The probability of exposure to cyber security threats is much higher when travelling. To avoid infections and attacks, your devices should be protected by a defense-in-depth. Check out our posts about security for more guidance.

Unless you are certain that the network that you’re using is secure, avoid doing anything online that would expose your sensitive information, e.g. banking or credit card transactions.

Security Scanners:

Travelers frequently question the safety of security scanners. Security scanners use very low levels of radiation and/or magnetic fields to detect dangerous objects and are not a significant threat.

Conclusion:

We’re all very dependent on our technology devices, so we want them with us when we travel. Travel exposes them to more threats. So, be careful out there. clickaway computer services is always happy to help you keep your devices safe.

Information Source: – https://clickaway.com/how-to-travel-with-your-tech/

A cracked screen. It’s the bane of every smartphone owner’s existence. One unfortunate drop, and suddenly your once pristine device resembles a spiderweb masterpiece. The initial shock is followed by a trip to a repair shop, where the cost of a screen replacement is readily available. But what about the hidden costs of mobile repair that lurk beneath the surface?

This blog delves into the world of mobile repair, unveiling the not-so-obvious expenses that can add up to a surprising total. Even with a cracked screen, seeking help from a qualified mobile repair institute near you can be the best course of action. Institutes like Hitech No. 1 in New Delhi, with over 20 years of experience training mobile repair professionals (over 3 lakh students!), can equip you with the knowledge to diagnose potential problems. It’s important to remember that Hitech No. 1 focuses on education and does not provide mobile repair services directly.

Here are eight hidden costs to consider when budgeting for your next phone repair:

1. The Labor Cost Surprise:

The price of a replacement screen might seem straightforward, but don’t be fooled. The actual repair often involves labor costs, which can vary depending on the complexity of the repair, the technician’s expertise, and the repair shop’s location.

Be sure to inquire about the labor cost upfront before committing to a repair. Some shops might bundle the screen and labor cost into a single price, while others might list them separately.

2. The “While We’re In There” Upsell:

During the repair process, technicians might uncover additional problems with your phone. A loose battery connector, a faulty charging port, or internal water damage are just a few examples. While some shops will inform you of these issues and obtain your consent before proceeding with additional repairs, others might present them as a “while we’re in there” scenario, implying the repairs are necessary and bundled with the initial screen replacement cost.

It’s crucial to communicate clearly with the technician and understand the cost implications of any additional repairs before they proceed.

3. The Genuine vs. Aftermarket Parts Debate:

Many repair shops offer a choice between genuine and aftermarket replacement parts. Genuine parts, manufactured by the phone’s original equipment manufacturer (OEM), are typically more expensive but ensure optimal functionality and compatibility. Aftermarket parts, on the other hand, are often cheaper but may not be of the same quality or performance as genuine parts.

Weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. While aftermarket parts can be a tempting option to save money, consider the potential risks, such as compatibility issues, shorter lifespans, or diminished performance.

4. The Data Backup Dilemma:

Before any repair, especially those involving hardware replacements, it’s crucial to back up your phone’s data. This includes photos, contacts, messages, and any other important information. While some repair shops might offer data backup services at an additional cost, it’s often safer and more reliable to back up your data yourself using a cloud storage service or a computer connection.

Remember, data loss can be a costly and frustrating consequence of neglecting backups.

5. The Accidental Damage Risk:

Accidents happen, even during repairs. There’s always a slight risk that the technician might accidentally damage another component of your phone while replacing the screen.

Reputable repair shops typically have insurance policies that cover accidental damage caused by their technicians. However, it’s always good practice to inquire about their policies and procedures in case of such mishaps.

The industry estimates a need for over 18 lakh mobile repair engineers. If you’re interested in a rewarding career path and enjoy tinkering with technology, a mobile repairing course could be a great way to gain the necessary skills and knowledge to capitalize on this growing demand.

By being aware of these hidden costs, you can create a more realistic budget for your phone repair. Don’t be afraid to shop around, compare prices, and ask questions before committing to a repair service. Remember, a little research and informed decision-making can save you money and ensure your phone gets the proper care it needs.