As a business traveller, your typical concerns might be not forgetting your passport, exchanging currency, and packing your luggage efficiently. With all of that on your mind, it’s easy to forget an important security measure – backing up and securing your work data.
While the internet has made it a lot easier to attend meetings virtually, or communicate with global vendors, there are still instances when you might be required to travel for business. And if you are like most business travellers, your laptop and smartphone will always be close at hand.
Here are seven things you can do to help protect your data while travelling for business.
1. Backup your data before you leave
If you have not backed up your data in a while, you may want to do so before you leave on your trip. If your business automatically backs up server files, keep in mind that the files you have on your desktop may not be included. You can upload them to the server before you go or store them on an external drive and lock it in your desk drawer.
2. Install software that helps protect and keep your data safe
One software you will want to consider installing is a virtual private network, also known as a VPN. A VPN creates a secure connection between your local computer and a remote computer (i.e., your company’s network) via the Internet. Any information that is sent while you are using a VPN connection is encrypted, so even if an outsider intercepts information, it cannot be read.
It is also important to make sure that anti-virus and firewall software is installed and up to date.
This applies to both your laptop computer as well as your smartphone. There are a number of good mobile security and anti-virus apps available for mobile devices. Where possible, ensure you have enabled your local firewall on your computer. This is another layer of defence to help resist attackers from connecting to your computer.
3. Ensure sensitive information is protected with adequate encryption
Many businesses will not provide employees with a laptop without full disk encryption. Full disk encryption ensures that, if the laptop is stolen, the thief only gets to have the hardware and not the data stored on it. If you do not have full disk encryption, you can still use commercial and open-source tools to encrypt files or folders that are most sensitive to you, your company, and your clients.
4. Never leave your laptop or mobile device unattended
Not even if you’re setting it down “just for a second.” Thousands of laptops and mobile
devices are lost or stolen at airports each year – do not let yours be one of them. If you’re staying at a hotel and you are heading out for dinner, store your laptop out of sight in your hotel room or in your room safe if you can fit it.
5. Use password protection methods
Whether you are working on a PC, Mac, or Linux computer, you can set a screen saver password, which locks your computer whenever you are using the screen saver. Be sure to enable password protection on your mobile devices as well.
While you should already be using strong passwords, the fact that you are travelling is a
good reason to update them. A strong password should be at least eight characters long, should not contain your name or company name. In fact, you should avoid using any complete words in your password altogether. Make sure it is completely different from any previous passwords. And finally, use a mix of upper- and lower-case letters, numbers and symbols. If you have a 4-digit password for your mobile phone, do not use easy combinations like 1234 or 1111.
6. Switch off your wireless connection when not in use
Your computer will seek out Wi-Fi access points, broadcast all the ones it knows and try to associate with them. Do not make it easier for anyone around you to gather that information. Prevent illicit access to your mobile devices by disabling Wi-Fi and Bluetooth when they are not in use. You can put your phone on airplane mode to disable connectivity altogether.
Also, do not use public Internet connections to do any online banking, shopping, or any other task that requires you to input your personal information. While it might be tempting to take advantage of the free Wi-Fi in a coffee shop or airport to catch up on your online banking or to make a quick purchase, these internet access points are not always trustworthy and may not even be provided by a legitimate business.
7. Be aware of your surroundings
Situational awareness is always important for your own safety when travelling. Watch out for that ‘shoulder surfer’ trying to see your smartphone PIN or password. You can hide your company or personal information on your screen by using a privacy screen. Avoid carrying your laptop in dangerous areas or where others aren’t already doing the same. Do not stand out as a target!
Ensure your business is protected
Making sure that your data is protected while on a business trip is super important. However, it’s also extremely important to ensure you have the necessary coverage should something go wrong. Cyber risk coverage is designed to support your business if computer networks are breached. Visit our cyber risk coverage page to find out more!
This blog is provided for information only and is not a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information and will not be responsible for any loss arising out of reliance on the information.
