How to stay cybersafe while travelling

When your career takes you on the road, efficiency is key. You want to get the most out of your trip. So, your planning centres around light packing and ensuring your itinerary is in order.

However, one thing that globetrotting business people sometimes neglect is data security. A large margin for error exists if you ignore data security. Engaging in risky behaviours such as connecting to insecure public Wi-Fi networks and leaving sensitive data unattended can leave you vulnerable.

Cybersecurity is a concern for businesses of all sizes. In fact, 46% of all cyberattacks worldwide affect businesses with fewer than 1,000 employees. In addition to this, roughly half of all small businesses fail to put in place cybersecurity plans. Many use free cybersecurity programmes rather than professional solutions.

Cybersecurity should be a concern not only for business leaders, but for individual workers handling sensitive data.

Let’s look at some of the most common cybersecurity mistakes made during business travel, and how to avoid them.

Careless use of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth

Using Wi-Fi is often unavoidable when working and travelling. However, if using a public network, cybercriminals can steal your data.

How to stay cybersecure

Make sure your devices are not set to automatically connect to Wi-Fi networks. Ensure you switch off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities when not in use.

To improve cybersecurity while using Wi-Fi, consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN). A VPN helps protect your online activities. It adds an extra layer of security to your internet connection.

A VPN uses encryption to create a more secure connection. This means it is more difficult for cybercriminals to monitor you or access your data.

Improper device management

Only bring with you the devices you need in order to complete your work while travelling. Bringing extra devices with you increases the chances of a security breach. Breaches can happen if a device is lost, stolen, or accessed by a cybercriminal.

What you can do

Ensure that you absolutely need the devices you’re bringing with you. Install trackers on these devices in case they are lost or stolen.

Not securing your devices

Failing to secure electronic devices is common mistake when it comes to cybersecurity while travelling. Leaving your devices unattended without a password, PIN, or facial recognition security leaves your data vulnerable to thieves.

Follow these tips

Implementing security strategies like passwords, PINs, and facial or fingerprint recognition will help ensure your devices are safe from attack.

Install two-factor authentication on your devices to ensure maximum security. This will prevent hackers from accessing your data, even if they do manage to steal your passwords. It also prevents theft of data if you mistakenly enter your details on a scam website.

When travelling for business, you will likely be working in busy places such as airports, train stations, co-working spaces, or in hotels and at conferences. It is, therefore, key to keep your devices safe when you are around unknown people.

Failing to update passwords

Not updating your passwords regularly and using the same passwords across multiple accounts and devices leaves your data vulnerable. This is because if your password falls into the wrong hands, all your accounts will be compromised, not just one.

Ensure the basics

Take the time to set up different passwords across your accounts and devices. Create strong passwords by including a mix of upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols.

Not backing up data

Backing up your data to the cloud is key to data security. It means you can access your data from other devices in the event that your device is compromised or breaks. It also means that if your devices are stolen, you don’t lose important files.

Take this extra step

Back up your data to the cloud regularly to mitigate the risks associated with a lost or stolen device.

Not exercising caution when clicking links

Whether travelling or in situ, it is very important to be cautious about clicking on any links emailed or texted to you. These can be phishing scams. According to Embroker, phishing attempts rose by 58.2% in 2023, with the most aimed at the finance sector.

Remain alert

If someone sends you a link, double check the email address they have sent it from. The email may look like it’s from a colleague, but if it isn’t their work email address, it may be a scam. If you are uncertain, contact the sender directly, preferably by phone call or in person, to ensure that it is them.

If you receive a link that you are uncertain about or unable to confirm as valid, relay the email to your IT department which will be able to support you.

Not using antivirus software

Antivirus software is important to have on your devices and computer systems at all times. However, it is especially crucial when travelling. When you are travelling for work, you need to have antivirus protection to protect against viruses, malware, spyware, ransomware, and more.

Keep devices up-to-date

Make sure that you install antivirus software on your devices as soon as you get them. Ensure you update this software regularly to protect yourself from viruses and malware and avoid data breaches.

Discarding travel documents

Don’t keep or throw away your boarding passes or baggage tags. If they fall into the wrong hands, the barcodes on these documents can be used to steal your personal information and data from the airline.

Go the extra mile

Reduce the risk of data breaches by safely destroying all boarding passes and baggage tags after your trip. This helps ensure they cannot be used to access your data.

What to do if you experience a cyberattack

In the event that you suspect your data may be compromised, you should ensure you have all the latest security devices, switch off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and update all your passwords.

Contact your employer's IT department immediately to report the breach. They will be ready to address the issue and will know exactly what to look for.

Moving across borders for work?

If your organisation wishes to expand into new regions or second or hire employees abroad, Mauve Group's experts can help.

With 28 years of experience in the global mobility space, our in-house teams are ready and waiting to help you navigate international expansion, employment, and compliance in more than 150 countries. Contact us today.