Planning your 4th of July escape—whether it’s a cross-country flight, a scenic road trip, or just a long weekend getaway, we want to make sure that your coverage is solid and secure. Here are four travel surprises you might not expect... and why our Solis hotspots are the perfect companions to keep you safe, powered, and connected.
1. Public Wi‑Fi Isn’t as Safe as You Think
Whether you're waiting to board, lounging at a café, or checking into a hotel, public Wi‑Fi is often the first thing we connect to. But what many travelers don’t realize is that these networks are rarely encrypted, meaning hackers can easily monitor traffic and intercept your passwords, emails, credit card numbers, or even sensitive work files.
In fact, the TSA recently warned travelers to be cautious about using airport Wi‑Fi altogether, citing increasing reports of data being siphoned from unsuspecting users on open networks. You may think you're just checking your inbox—but someone nearby could be watching everything you type. (Source)
Once cybercriminals have a foothold on your device, the danger doesn’t stop there. That brings us to a second, often-overlooked risk: public USB charging ports.
2. Juice Jacking: What is it & How does it work?
Public USB ports, like those found at airports, hotel lobbies, or transit stations, might seem like a traveler’s best friend—but in reality, they could be a backdoor into your device.
This threat, known as “juice jacking,” allows hackers to install malware or steal data by modifying the USB hardware behind charging stations. Once plugged in, your phone might silently authorize a data connection—giving attackers access to personal info, photos, credentials, or even remote control.
Researchers at events like Def Con Hacking Conference have demonstrated how easily manipulated kiosks can extract data using hidden hardware elements. In 2025, academics even revealed a new variant—“ChoiceJacking”—where malicious microcontrollers bypass permission prompts.
How common is it?
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There have been no confirmed large-scale attacks reported—most concerns stem from proof-of-concept demos.
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Still, the TSA, FBI, FCC, and other agencies continue to issue advisories due to the severity of the potential threat. (Source)
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Security experts describe it as a "low-probability but high-impact" risk.
How to protect yourself
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Use a personal AC charger or portable power bank—no data risk.
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Use charge-only cables or USB data blockers to block data lines.
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Always decline data access prompts if a public device asks.
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Avoid unknown or suspicious charging stations, especially in high-risk environments like airports or public transit hubs.
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Keep OS and firmware updated; iOS 18.4 and Android 15 include stronger protections—though some devices (e.g., Samsung One UI 7) might still be vulnerable.
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If you plug your device into a USB port and see a message like "share data" or “trust this computer” or “charge only,” always choose “charge only.” (Source)
Bonus tip: With Solis Go’s built-in 8000 mAh battery, you can skip public charging stations altogether—no cables, no compromises, no risk.
And since it supports up to 10 connected devices at once, it’s perfect for families, friends, or group trips. You’ll be the one everyone counts on when their signal drops or their battery runs low.
3. Dead Zones Can Still Happen
At SIMO, we work hard to deliver reliable coverage across the globe—but let’s face it: dead zones still exist, especially in the most remote stretches of your journey. Even in popular summer destinations like national parks, coastal highways, or quiet mountain towns, wireless blackouts are more common than you’d think.
So… should you be afraid of dead zones? Yes and no.
No, if you’re simply passing through and do not need to be online at that moment.
But yes, if your trip depends on navigation, communication, or even entertainment. Imagine you're halfway through a scenic highway in the middle of nowhere and suddenly, your GPS drops, your calls won't go through, and your phone reads "No Service." There’s no Wi-Fi, no data, and no way to get help if something goes wrong.
This is where our Solis Pro comes in handy – it could even be a lifesaver. With it's improved bands for rural locations, it switches between networks to find the strongest signal and helps you stay connected so you can navigate your way back home or to safety.
4. SIM Swap Confusion: The Travel Hack That Backfires
This might be an unusual, clever “hack” some travelers do but it does happen: pop out your home SIM card, plug in a local one, and enjoy cheaper mobile data abroad. But this strategy often turns into a digital nightmare for those who don’t know better.
Here’s the problem: your phone number isn’t just for calls—it’s the backbone of your digital identity. It's how you receive two-factor authentication (2FA) codes for banking apps, email logins, cloud storage, rideshare services, and even access to airline alerts. The moment you remove your SIM card, many of these services can break or lock you out completely.
What travelers don’t realize until it’s too late:
- You can't receive 2FA codes to access PayPal, Venmo, your bank, or your work email
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You’re locked out of essential accounts that use your number for recovery
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Your iMessage and FaceTime may deactivate and not reset easily
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Switching SIMs can confuse WhatsApp, Instagram, and other apps tied to your number
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Your eSIM slot may already be in use or incompatible with local carriers
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Local SIM cards may not come with tech support in English if anything goes wrong
And to make matters worse, many new phones now require internet access to reactivate your Apple ID, Google account, or cloud sync services after a SIM change—which means if the local SIM doesn’t work, and you’re in a Wi‑Fi dead zone, you’re stuck.
Hint: Our Solis Hero completely eliminates the need for SIM swapping when traveling out of the country.
Final Thoughts
Our Solis hotspots aren't just gadgets—it’s your mobile safety net for your summer travel plans:
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Secure private hotspot—no risky public Wi‑Fi.
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Reliable charging on the go—avoid juice jacking.
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Carrier-hopping connectivity—beat dead zones.
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Portable internet advantage—from city streets to mountain trails.
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Shareable fun—keep the whole crew online.
Ready to make this summer safer, smarter, and more reliable?