Travel Smart: Essential Cybersecurity Practices For A Hack-Free Vacation

Summer is the perfect time for business owners and employees to take a well-deserved vacation. Even with an “out of office” email responder, many people still check in on work periodically while traveling. Unfortunately, working outside the office—whether it's checking emails on vacation, connecting to the Internet at a coffee shop, or on business trips—can pose significant cybersecurity risks. If you or your employees need to handle work tasks from the airport or hotel, it's essential to follow strong cybersecurity best practices to protect your company's network from hackers.

In this blog post, we’ll cover crucial cybersecurity steps to take before and during any trip to ensure your network stays secure.

Why Cybersecurity Matters While Traveling

Cybersecurity might not be at the top of your vacation checklist, but neglecting it can turn your getaway into a nightmare. Cybercriminals know that summer is a prime time to attack because people are more likely to let their guard down. To minimize the risk of a cyberattack while traveling, follow these best practices:

Before You Go:

  1. Back Up Your Data: Ensure you have a copy of your data in case your device is lost or damaged. Check out Backblaze for an on the go backup solution.
  2. Update Your Software: Keep your operating system, web browsers, and apps properly updated to the latest stable and tested versions to protect against malware.
  3. Protect Your Devices: Lock your device using a PIN, passcode, fingerprint, or facial recognition. This prevents unauthorized access if your device is unattended.
  4. Enable “Find My Phone”: This feature helps locate your device if lost and allows you to remotely wipe data or disable the device if necessary.

While Traveling:

  1. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN): A VPN encrypts your Internet connection, securing your data even on public WiFi networks. Set up a VPN before you leave and use it whenever you access the Internet.
  2. Avoid Public WiFi: Public WiFi networks are hotspots for cybercriminal activity. Avoid using them unless necessary and always use a VPN if you do.
  3. Manage Location Services: Turn off location services when not in use and limit sharing your location on social media.
  4. Enable Multifactor Authentication (MFA): MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification. Enable MFA for all sensitive accounts.
  5. Disable Auto-Connect Features: Prevent your device from automatically connecting to available wireless networks to avoid connecting to malicious networks.

Taking these precautions helps ensure your devices stay secure so you can enjoy your vacation without worrying about cyber threats. However, these steps are not foolproof. For comprehensive cybersecurity, consider working with a professional IT team that can monitor your network 24/7, patch vulnerabilities, and alert you to suspicious activities.

If you want peace of mind while traveling, contact us at 763-331-6227. We’ll help you assess your current cybersecurity measures, identify vulnerabilities, and help you implement a strategic security plan to keep your business safe.

Additional Travel Tips:

  • Limit Bluetooth Use: Disable Bluetooth when not in use to prevent unauthorized access to your devices.
  • Be Cautious with Public Computers: Avoid using public computers for sensitive activities. If necessary, ensure you log out completely after use.
  • Monitor Bank Accounts and Credit Cards: Regularly check your financial statements for any unauthorized transactions.

By following these tips, you can enhance your cybersecurity and ensure a worry-free vacation.

To help you prepare for your vacation and have peace of mind knowing your business is secure while you or your employees are working remotely, call us at 763-331-6227.

Safe Travels!

 

 


 

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