Cyber security tips for safe travels

Published on 13/06/2024 in News & Insights

The safest way to protect your data while travelling is to leave your mobile devices at home, but that’s often not practical. In this article, we explore how to secure your data whether you’re travelling for business or leisure.

Preparation tips

Before embarking on your travels, ensure all your devices have the latest security features and software updates. Enable the “automatic updates” feature to add an extra layer of protection to your device, as these updates often include tweaks that protect you against emerging cybersecurity threats during your trip.

Backing up your files and data is crucial before your departure. With work devices, this could include syncing your laptop with your company’s server. It ensures that all your data is stored on their system, making it easily recoverable if your laptop is lost or stolen.

Lock down your accounts

Whether you use a public or private computer or internet connection, you must take every possible precaution to keep your data safe. Start by creating long, unique passwords for all your accounts. Additionally, implement multifactor authentication (MFA) wherever possible. MFA strengthens your online security by requiring multiple forms of verification, such as biometrics or one-time codes sent to your mobile device.

Be mindful of public Wi-Fi networks and computers

While public Wi-Fi is often a convenient and inexpensive way to get online when you’re out, it comes with its fair share of security risks. Public wireless networks and hotspots are generally not secure, allowing others to potentially see what you are doing on your laptop or smartphone. Limit your activities on these networks and consider using a VPN or a personal hotspot for a more secure connection.

Avoid using public computers for accessing sensitive personal information or for financial transactions. If you must use a public computer, make sure to uncheck any “remember me” boxes on sites you log into, and delete your browser history and cookies before you leave.

Who is watching you

It may be tempting to pull out your work laptop or mobile device to get some tasks done while on the train, but be cautious – this can pose a data risk even if you’re not connected to the internet. A single nosy passenger could glance at your screen and see confidential information. To prevent this, avoid working on sensitive tasks in public unless you’re certain no one else can see your device. It’s surprisingly easy for someone looking over your shoulder to identify your name, employer, senior managers, and other information that could lead to a social engineering scam.

Keep a tight leash on your devices

Laptops and mobiles are prime targets for thieves, so minimise taking them out and about with you if you can. Here are some additional tips for keeping your devices safe.

Use hotel safes: If you’re staying in a hotel, use the in-room safe to lock them away. If a safe isn’t available, secure them in your luggage with a padlock.
Lock your devices: If you need to carry your device with you, ensure it’s locked with a passcode or PIN, so if anybody steals it, they will not be able to access your confidential information.
Activate “find my phone”: Consider activating the “find my phone” feature available for Android and iOS devices. This feature allows you to locate your phone and remotely wipe data or disable the device if it falls into the wrong hands.
Stay vigilant in public places: Never leave devices unattended or entrust them to strangers. If you use a device in a café, always bring it with you while you go to order a drink or use the toilet – even if it means losing your seat.
Implement business security protocols: If you are a business owner, it is important to have a security protocol in place for lost or stolen devices. Are you able to track their device or wipe them remotely? If not, set up these protocols to protect your data if an employee’s device goes missing.

Using mobile devices and laptops abroad

As a business owner, you may need to ask yourself several of questions regarding device safety. Do you have a policy on managers and employees taking devices out of the country when they are not at work? If they can take them abroad, do you provide any advice or training about using a virtual private network (VPN)? If you haven’t addressed these issues, it may be beneficial to organise training sessions for employees on using their devices safely while travelling, including instructions on using VPNs.

Locking down social media

Your business may have one or several social media accounts, and it is more data to think about keeping safe while travelling. If your team has access to company social media accounts, ensure you have guidance for helping them completely log out of such accounts in case a device gets stolen. Consider having social media accounts temporarily managed by employees who are not travelling, allowing the travelling employee to stay logged out during their trip.

Think before you post

Whether travelling for business or pleasure, it may be tempting to post pictures from your trip on your personal social media accounts – but this can pose a security risk. Posting while you are on holiday tells everyone that you are away from home, highlighting an opportunity for thieves to break into your house and steal any devices you may have thought were safer left behind. Wait until you have returned home to share your pictures and information about the trip.

Cyber insurance from Hugh J Boswell

If you have cyber insurance in place for your business, make sure you are familiar with the terms and where you are covered. Ensure processes are in place for reporting any cyber incidents 24/7, and communicate this process to all colleagues.

If you have any questions about protecting your business against a cyber-attack contact us on 01603 626155 or enquiries@hughjboswell.co.uk. Our team will be happy to assist.