Why You Should Never Post a Picture of Your Boarding Pass on Social Media

Even first-time filers know that an airline boarding pass contains certain information about a traveler. A passenger's name, flight number, and seat assignment are all printed in plain sight. But did you know these tickets, whether a paper print out or an electronic version, contain more personal information than meets the eye?Get more news about boarding pass manufacturers,you can vist our website!

Specifically, the barcode on a boarding pass can pull up data like a frequent flier number, contact information, or other identification details. The information contained is "going to vary barcode by barcode, airline by airline," says privacy researcher Bill Fitzgerald. But one rule of thumb is to always assume the scannable code "has information about you and your stuff and where you're going," he says.
Travelers should also assume that the barcodes contain driver's license and passport details, as fliers must provide these to the airline or at the airport, according to Fitzgerald. As such, the paper versions of the travel document should be disposed of with care. "If you have a barcode on something, you should not be throwing that into the trash unless you want somebody to get it," says Fitzgerald. "And you should definitely never be posting it on social media."

These might seem like standard data protection guidelines to follow, but even the most savvy travelers have tripped up when it comes to boarding pass protection. In March 2020, former Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott posted an Instagram photo of his boarding pass for a Qantas flight. "Using only this image an attacker was able to gain access to the prime minister's personal details including his phone number and passport [number]," says Mark Scrano, an information security manager at cybersecurity firm Cobalt. Although that hacker didn't use Abbott's data for malicious purposes, instead spending months trying to contact Abbott's team to warn of a potential security breach, others might not be so altruistic.

Most attackers could use that data-which at first glance might seem minor or obscure on its own-to continue "leveraging your personal details to launch other online attacks against your digital accounts and persona," Scrano says. "Many airlines use only the data on the boarding pass, specifically the confirmation code and last name to allow full access to your online account. These can be abused to access your personal data that is stored by the airline."

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The Evolution of Boarding Passes: A Look at Today's Manufacturers
In the age of global travel, the boarding pass has become an essential element of the journey, evolving from a simple piece of paper to a sophisticated document that not only grants access to the aircraft but also serves as a key to a multitude of services. This transformation has been driven by the innovation and expertise of specialized boarding pass manufacturers who have pushed the boundaries of technology and design.Get more news about boarding pass manufacturers,you can vist our website!

The modern boarding pass is a product of meticulous engineering and thoughtful consideration of the passenger experience. It contains vital information such as flight details, gate numbers, and seat assignments, and often includes barcodes or RFID technology for seamless airport navigation. The design of boarding passes has also become more user-friendly, with clear layouts and instructions to ease the stress of travel.

Behind these advancements are companies like Appvion and BAGTAG in Europe, and Kimoha and Suzhou Guanhua Paper Factory in Asia, among others. These manufacturers have developed a range of products that cater to the diverse needs of airlines and passengers alike. From traditional paper boarding passes to electronic and mobile versions, the options are vast and continue to expand.

The industry has also seen a shift towards sustainability, with manufacturers offering eco-friendly solutions such as biodegradable materials and digital alternatives that reduce paper waste. This commitment to the environment reflects a broader trend in the aviation sector towards responsible and sustainable practices.

As we look to the future, the boarding pass will undoubtedly continue to evolve. With the advent of biometrics and further digital integration, the boarding pass may soon become entirely virtual, further streamlining the travel process and enhancing security. The role of manufacturers in this evolution cannot be overstated, as they are the architects of the tools that make modern air travel possible.

In conclusion, the boarding pass manufacturers play a pivotal role in the travel industry, providing innovative solutions that enhance the passenger experience and improve operational efficiency. Their contributions have transformed the boarding pass from a simple ticket to a multifaceted tool that is integral to the journey of millions of travelers around the world.

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