Summer is a prime season for business owners and employees to escape the office for a well-earned vacation. Even with "out of office" auto-replies set, many people still check in on work occasionally while traveling. Unfortunately, studies reveal that working remotely—whether it's a quick email check during vacation, using the Internet at a local café, or business travelers working on the go—can pose 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 robust cybersecurity practices to avoid exposing your company's network to nearby hackers.
In this blog post, we'll discuss essential cybersecurity practices to implement before and during any trip to safeguard your network from cyber threats.
Why Cybersecurity Matters While Traveling
Cybersecurity might not be a top priority on your vacation checklist, but neglecting it can transform your dream getaway into a nightmare. Cybercriminals are aware that summer is an opportune time to strike because people tend to lower their guard while on vacation. Most vacationers focus on enjoying their time away from the office rather than following cybersecurity best practices, making them easy targets for hackers.
To reduce the risk of a cyberattack while traveling, here are some best practices to share with your team members who might connect to the Internet during their vacation.
Before You Go:
- Back Up Your Data: Ensure you have a copy of your data that can be restored if your device is lost or damaged.
- 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 Outdated software can compromise your device's defense against malware.
- Protect Your Devices Always lock your devices with a PIN, passcode, fingerprint, or facial recognition. Set this up before traveling if you haven't already. An unlocked device can give someone full access to your private information if left unattended.
- Enable "Find My Phone": This feature allows you to locate your device if it's lost and gives you the ability to remotely wipe data or disable the device if it falls into the wrong hands.
While Traveling:
- Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN): A VPN encrypts your Internet connection, securing your data even when using public WiFi networks. Set up a VPN on your devices before you leave and use it whenever you access the Internet.
- Avoid Public WiFi: Public WiFi networks can be hotspots for cybercriminal activity. Avoid unprotected networks whenever possible. (Yes, that means no checking your email on the beach unless you have a VPN!)
- Manage Location Services: While location tools are great for navigating new places, they can also expose your location to criminals. Turn off location services when not in use and limit how you share your location on social media.
- Enable Multifactor Authentication (MFA): MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring a second form of verification, such as a text message code, authenticator code, or fingerprint scan. Enable MFA for all accounts containing sensitive information before you travel.
- Disable Auto-Connect Features: Some devices automatically seek and connect to available wireless networks, which can be risky. Disable this feature to ensure you only connect to trusted wireless and Bluetooth networks.
By taking these simple precautions, you can secure your devices and enjoy your vacation without worrying about cyber issues upon your return to work.
However, remember that these steps are not foolproof. To ensure your company's cybersecurity measures are truly up to standard, it's essential to work with a professional IT team. They can monitor your network 24/7, patch any vulnerabilities that arise, and alert you to any suspicious activities.
To help you prepare for your vacation and have peace of mind knowing your business is secure while you or your employees are working remotely, call us at 702-970-3472 or click here to schedule a FREE consultation 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.
