Summer vacation planning is in full swing, and with the excitement comes an aspect of travel often overlooked – IT security. In our increasingly connected world, safeguarding digital devices and data during travel is more important than ever.
Let’s dive into useful tips to ensure cyber safety as you enjoy your well-deserved summer vacation.
Passport, check. Sunscreen, check. IT Security ..?
There are a couple of crucial steps before you retire the corporate wardrobe and launch into your summer adventure.
Start by informing your IT Team about your intended travel location and the duration of your trip. By doing so, they’ll protect your devices and ensure uninterrupted access to your company’s networks, no matter where you are. Heightened security awareness is essential for executives traveling internationally but is just as important for everyone else.
Also, it’s essential to keep your mobile software updated. Ensure your mobile devices’ operating systems and apps are all on their latest versions. This precaution enhances their resilience against possible cyber threats. Think of it as giving your device a much-needed health check before your journey!
Relax & Unwind, Verify the Connect
Once you’ve reached your vacation spot and started soaking in the new experiences, do your best to disconnect. But when you need to connect, remember to keep IT security on your radar.
First, disable the ‘autoconnect’ feature on your devices to avoid unintended connections to unsecured networks.
When using public Wi-Fi, make sure you’re connecting to the correct network. If you must carry out sensitive tasks, like online banking or accessing work files, activate your Virtual Private Network (VPN). Think of a VPN as a bodyguard for your internet traffic, securing your online activities.
Let’s remember the importance of your devices’ physical security and safety. It’s best not to leave your devices unattended in public places or hotel rooms. Stow them securely in the hotel room safe when you’re not using them.
A recent Wall Street Journal report revealed a worrying trend. Thieves are spying on victims’ phone passcodes in places such as bars and clubs. They then steal the device and access data and bank accounts.
Even though vacations are a time to unwind, maintaining vigilance regarding IT security is critical. Stay alert to suspicious emails or webpages. Don’t respond to unexpected MFA prompts (e.g., fake text messages from your bank, push notifications from an authenticator app). Call your IT Help Desk if something doesn’t seem right.
Home Sweet Home
Upon returning from your travels, your journey with IT security doesn’t end. Communicate your return to the IT team so they can return your account to its regular settings. They’ll also check your devices to ensure they didn’t pick up any digital hitchhikers, like malware, during your vacation.
Enjoying your summer vacation and maintaining IT security in a world where you can’t always wholly disconnect need not be daunting. With these tips, you can keep your devices secure and enjoy your travels and time away worry-free.
Key Takeaways
- Inform your IT Team about your travel
- Keep your mobile software updated
- Disable the ‘autoconnect’ feature on devices
- Activate your Virtual Private Network (VPN)
- Protect the physical security of your devices
- Stay alert to suspicious email or unexpected MFA prompts
