Computer Safety While Traveling

As we all start thinking about the upcoming holidays and traveling to see friends and family, we want to make sure that our computer is safe when traveling.

Let's look at hotel connections first. It can be risky from a data-security standpoint, and the increase of risk starts as soon as you take your devices outside their normal secure networks.

Below you will find a personal checklist.

Before leaving town

Consider traveling with a virus-free, fully updated loaner laptop with only minimal software installed when traveling for business. Leaving your own fully packed machine stays home safe. By leaving your primary business computer at home, you are eliminating the risk of having it compromised.

If you can't do that, then take the following steps before you travel.

1. Clear your browser cache files

2. Remove unnecessary sensitive data

3. Password protect all devices with strong passwords that you have not saved on your devices.

4. Remove any saved passwords.

5. Backup all of your essential data that you will be traveling with you

6. Disable all remote connectivity. Some examples would be Bluetooth, wi-fi, and file sharing

When on your trip

If you are traveling for business, make sure that you use your virtual private network or VPN to ensure that your communications are encrypted when you connect from any wireless or wired network.

Follow these safe computing guidelines:

1. Don't use kiosk computers or public workstations in hotels or Internet cafes.

2. Don't use any network that would require you to download software to your computer.

3. Don't let anyone else use your electronic devices.

4. Use a privacy screen when you are not able to have privacy when using your computer.

5. Do not allow others to connect a portable device or USB to your computer.

6. Do not leave your devices unattended. An example would be hotel rooms.

7. Routinely check for viruses and malicious software when you are traveling.

After your return

Something that I recommend is always to assume that your devices have been compromised.

You want to check your devices for any malware, viruses, and spyware before you connect to any home network. NEVER use a USB drive of software that you received as a gift or promotional items when you have been out unless you have been verified clean by your IT group.