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Paris. Shall report back. How safe is a flash drive in internet cafes and on wifi?

Am new to this forum but have learned from all those who have posted.
I shall return the favor.
I seem to go most often to the "all topics" list because it pulls many needs together.
Leaving for Paris in 2 weeks. But am debating whether I should bother with a flash drive?

Posted by
57 posts

Chani posted re the Forum: Rick Steves Tours: What do you like or dislike most about Rick Steves Tours and my response:
Chani "What's the question? RS or a different tour company? RS or independent travel? Which RS tour to choose? My guess is that most people who read the forum or get to the Tours section of the website are leaning toward an RS tour and are more concerned about which tour to choose and what time of year to go. "

FML :No Chani, I believe the theme is how the RS Corporate hears the feedback.
I have followed Rick Steves since he was in graduate school with his first book.
I am not happy with the changes witnessed.

Posted by
32765 posts

Sorry, I don't see the relationship between the the first answer you gave yourself and your question?

What do you want a flash drive (USB or SD??) for?

What other hardware will you have?

If you put a USB drive in somebody else's computer you run the risk of catching whatever is there. Then when you use it in another one you run the risk of putting whatever you picked up on that one.

Think of it like your handkerchief. You are healthy but carry your handkerchief. In a meeting with a friend you lend it to them so they can sneeze and then put it back in your pocket. You use it for a day then lend it to a third friend who also needs it. Now all three of you have all the germs of each. (except the first guest who doesn't get the germs of the other guest). Does that make sense.

Wifi in Europe is as safe or unsafe as wifi on the street in New York City.

Posted by
693 posts

Yes, what is the relationship between your question and your answer?

Posted by
57 posts

Thank you Chani and mpf.
1)Because I fear the technology contagion you mentioned, I was hoping to avoid the problem by not taking
anything other than 2 flash drives.
I am taking an unlocked Moto e2 with no personal info on it.
Therefor, my hope was to keep my info safe on an USB using Internet Cafes etc.
Since I shall need to access business accounts, I am trying to figure out the safest way.
I have an SD card also, but I thought that could only be used for uploading files from my camera.
I do appreciate your answers.
2)The reason for my answer vs question lack of agreement is my attempt to piggyback my discomfort with Chani's answer on another forum to my unhappiness with RS over the year. It was perhaps a shortcut I should not have taken.

Posted by
57 posts

Apologies to Nigel who gave me valuable information

Posted by
32212 posts

Again, it would help to have more information on what you plan to do with the flashdrive. If you're planning to use internet cafes (which are becoming less common), note that some operators don't allow flashdrives to be connected as they may introduce viruses into their PC's.

Posted by
57 posts

Thank you Ken.
I plan to use the flash drive (32GB) to keep my phone working optimally by removing
photos, apps, emails. Figuring out as I go along.
Did not realize internet cafes are imposing restrictions. But it makes sense.

Therefor I need to rephrase my question.
What is the best way for me to stay in touch with the US in the most secure manner?