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Cyber-Savvy Travel
Protecting Your Data on Vacation

Summer is here, and it’s time for business owners and employees to take that much-needed vacation. Even with the “out of office” email response set up, many still find themselves checking in on work occasionally. However, whether it’s a quick email check while lounging at the beach or accessing documents from a cozy coffee shop, working outside the office can lead to significant cybersecurity issues. If you or your employees will be handling work tasks from the airport or hotel lobby, it’s crucial to maintain robust cybersecurity practices to keep your company’s network safe from nearby hackers.

In this blog post, we’ll explore some essential cybersecurity practices to follow before and during your trip to ensure your network stays secure.

Why Cybersecurity Matters While Traveling

Cybersecurity might not be the first thing on your vacation checklist but overlooking it can turn your dream getaway into a nightmare. Cybercriminals know that summer is prime time for attacks because people tend to let their guard down while on vacation. For many, the focus is on relaxing and having fun rather than following cybersecurity protocols, making them easy targets for hackers.

To help minimize the risk of a cyberattack while traveling, here are a few recommended guidelines to cover with your team before anyone connects to the Internet on vacation.

Before You Go:

  1. Back Up Your Data – If your device gets lost or damaged, having a copy of your data available for restoration is crucial.
  2. Update Your Software– Ensure your operating system, web browsers, and apps are updated to the latest versions. Outdated software can make your device vulnerable to malware.
  3. Protect Your Devices – Always lock your devices using a PIN, passcode, fingerprint, or facial recognition. Set this up before traveling to prevent unauthorized access to your private information.
  4. Enable “Find My Phone” – This feature allows you to locate your device if it’s lost and remotely wipe data or disable the device if it’s stolen.

While Traveling:

  1. Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) – A VPN encrypts your Internet connection, keeping your data secure even when using public WiFi networks. Set up a VPN on your devices before you leave and use it whenever you go online.
  2. Avoid Public WiFi – While convenient, public WiFi networks are hotspots for cybercriminal activity. Steer clear of unprotected networks whenever possible. (Yes, that means no checking your email on the beach unless you have a VPN!)
  3. Manage Location Services – Location tools are handy for navigating new places but can expose your whereabouts to criminals. Turn off location services when not in use and be mindful of how you share your location on social media.
  4. Enable Multifactor Authentication (MFA) – MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second verification step, such as a text message code, authenticator code, or fingerprint scan. Enable MFA for all accounts containing sensitive information before you travel.
  5. Disable Auto-Connect Features – Some devices automatically connect to available wireless networks. This can expose your devices to cybercriminals if you connect to the wrong network. Disable this option to ensure you only connect to networks you trust.

Enjoy Your Vacation with Peace of Mind

You deserve to relax on vacation without worrying about cybersecurity threats. By taking these simple precautions, you can keep your devices secure and fully enjoy your time off.

However, remember that these steps aren’t fail-proof. To truly ensure your company’s cybersecurity measures are up to standard, it’s essential to work with a professional IT team. They can monitor your network 24/7, patch vulnerabilities as they arise, and alert you to any suspicious activity.

To prepare for your vacation and ensure your business remains secure while you or your employees work remotely, call us at 505-792-2375 or click here to schedule a 10-minute phone call with our cybersecurity experts today. We’ll evaluate your current cybersecurity solutions, identify potential vulnerabilities, and help you implement a strategic security plan to keep your company safe.