Stepping Out of the Office: Cybersecurity Tips for Summer Travel
Summer is a popular time for business owners and employees to take a well-earned break from the office. However, even with their "out of office" email responder activated, many people still check in on work occasionally while traveling. Unfortunately, working outside the office—whether it's a quick email check on vacation, connecting to the Internet at a local coffee shop, or business travelers on work trips—can lead to significant cybersecurity risks. If you or your employees plan to handle urgent emails from the airport or access network documents in a hotel lobby, it's crucial to adhere to strong cybersecurity practices to safeguard your company's network from nearby hackers.
In this blog post, we'll outline essential cybersecurity best practices to follow before and during any trip to keep your network secure from cyber threats.
Why Cybersecurity Matters While Traveling
Cybersecurity might not top your vacation checklist, but ignoring it can turn your dream getaway into a nightmare. Cybercriminals know summer is prime time for attacks because people are more likely to let their guard down while on vacation. Most vacationers focus on enjoying their time away from the office rather than ensuring they follow cybersecurity best practices, making them easy targets for hackers.
To minimize the risk of a cyberattack while traveling, here are some best practices to cover with anyone on your team who might connect to the Internet while away.
Before You Go:
1. Back Up Your Data: Ensure you have a copy of your data available to restore in case your device gets lost or damaged.
2. Update Your Software: Make sure your operating system, web browsers, and apps are updated to the latest versions. Outdated software can compromise your device's defenses against malware.
3. Protect Your Devices: Always lock your device using a PIN, passcode, fingerprint, or facial recognition. If you don't already do this, set it up before traveling. An unlocked device can give someone full access to your private information if left unattended.
4. Enable "Find My Phone": This feature allows you to locate your device if lost and gives you the power to remotely wipe data or disable the device if it falls into the wrong hands.
While Traveling:
1. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN): A VPN encrypts your Internet connection, ensuring your data is secure even on public WiFi networks. Set up a VPN on your devices before you leave and use it whenever you access the Internet.
2. Avoid Public WiFi: Public WiFi networks can be hotspots for cybercriminal activity. Avoid using unprotected networks whenever possible. (Yes, that means no checking your email on the beach without a VPN!)
3. Manage Location Services: While location tools are useful for navigating new places, they can also expose your location to criminals. Turn off location services when not actively using them, and consider limiting how you share your location on social media.
4. Enable Multifactor Authentication (MFA): MFA adds an extra layer of security to your accounts by requiring a second verification form, such as a text message code, authenticator code, or fingerprint scan. Enable this feature for all accounts containing sensitive information before you leave.
5. Disable Auto-Connect Features: Some devices automatically seek and connect to available wireless networks. These features can give cybercriminals access to your devices if you connect to the wrong network. Disable this option so you only connect to wireless and Bluetooth networks you know and trust.
By following these cybersecurity best practices, you can enjoy your time away from the office without compromising your company's network security. Safe travels!
