Asia Pacific’s (APAC) travel sector is bouncing back. After the impact of the pandemic more than six years ago, this industry is accelerating towards full recovery, and so is the need for smart, secure connectivity. With this, global cybersecurity and digital privacy company, Kaspersky, is stepping in with an innovation that makes international travel even smoother.
In 2024, the region welcomed over 316 million international visitors, narrowing the gap with pre-pandemic levels to just 13%, compared to a steep 74% drop in 2022. APAC’s international arrival volume is also projected to climb from 619 million in 2024 to 762 million by 2026, signaling a full return to pre-pandemic demand while outbound travel from APAC is expected to surge by 20 – 25% this year.
To provide secure connectivity on the go, Kaspersky unveils the Kaspersky eSIM Store, a convenient new solution that lets travelers install digital SIMs on their mobile devices instantly. With just a few taps, users can select not only country-specific plan but also region-specific and global plans, and go online without the hassle of swapping physical SIM cards. It’s a fast, secure, and borderless way to stay connected, especially for today’s mobile-first, on-the-move generation.
The rise of travel eSIMs is especially pronounced in APAC, which now represents over 56% of the global market and generated around USD 11.5 million in revenue in 2024. Industry forecasts show continued momentum, with annual growth rates between 11% and 21% expected in the coming years.
Riding on the travel wave are cybercriminals who are piggybacking on the eSIM growth in the region. Researchers from Kaspersky spotted phishing pages and scams mimicking top telecommunication companies in the region including – Singtel, Smart, and Telstra.
Entering sensitive data like phone number on a phishing site can expose user to serious security and financial risks. Cybercriminals can use the information user provides to access their financial accounts or crypto wallets, especially if they also obtain login credentials or security questions.
“As travel booms across the region, digital connectivity must evolve just as fast,” said Chee Choon Hong, Head of Consumer Channel for APAC at Kaspersky. “The Kaspersky eSIM Store is our response to that. With eSIM adoption accelerating and more travelers demanding instant, reliable data access wherever they go, our solution empowers them with a secure and stress-free experience. It’s exactly what APAC’s vibrant travel economy needs.”
The Kaspersky eSIM Store isn’t just a digital convenience, it’s a smarter way to stay connected while traveling. Designed for ease, speed, and flexibility, it solves common travel pain points and empowers users to manage mobile connectivity on their terms.
- Value: Travelers can access affordable internet plans without worrying about roaming fees or hidden charges. With coverage in over 150 countries and regions, the service provides access to eSIM data plans from local telecom operators all over the world, no matter where your journey takes you, from urban cities to remote destinations.
- Security and flexibility: Installation is seamless. Users simply purchase a plan, follow intuitive on-screen steps, and activate the eSIM in minutes. No physical SIM card, no waiting in lines, and in many cases, no need to present an ID or passport, making it ideal for international trips and spontaneous getaways.
- Eco-friendly: Sustainability is also built in. By eliminating plastic SIM cards and packaging, the Kaspersky eSIM Store supports eco-friendly travel. And with top-up options available anytime, travelers can extend their data on the go, without changing SIMs or losing connectivity.
Kaspersky eSIM Store is now available on the official website https://kasperskyesimstore.com/, and as a mobile app in App Store and Google Play.
Image caption: An example of an eSIM scam in Japan
