We’re already knee-deep in that Holiday travel time of the year. For the next month, personal travel usually outpaces business travel. No matter when, where or why you’re traveling, technology goes with you. We rely heavily on our devices no matter where we are or where we’re going, so bear in mind that traveling exposes these devices to various risks. Theft, damage, and loss are common concerns.
Cybersecurity is not generally the first thing travelers think about, but here at ITFIRM.COM we do. Mobile devices are the weakest links in your business hardware chain, and much weaker for your typical ‘civilian.’
Let’s look at some practices that can mitigate the risk of any tech mishaps on your next trip. This is the question you need to ask yourself:
How to protect your devices while traveling?
Protective cases for your devices
This is the most important tip of all. During travel, devices are easily banged around and damaged.
Invest in quality protective cases if you don’t already have them. They shield your gadgets from bumps, drops, and scratches. Use cases that are sturdy and provide a snug fit. For laptops and tablets, consider hardshell cases. For smartphones, use cases that cover the edges and have raised bezels. This simple step can save you from costly repairs.
Use tracking apps
If your devices are lost or stolen, tracking apps on will help you locate them. Many operating systems have built-in tracking features. Enable them before you travel. For example, use "Find My" for Apple devices or "Find My Device" for Android. These tools provide the location of your devices. They also offer remote locking and wiping capabilities.
Keep your devices close
It stands to reason that keeping your devices within reach is crucial. Avoid placing them in checked luggage. Carry them in your personal bag or maybe a backpack or a crossbody bag with secure compartments. If you need to leave your device unattended, store it in a hotel safe. The less exposure your gadgets have, the lower the risk of theft or damage.
Create strong passwords
This is a fundamental rule of good cybersecurity: Protect your devices, from smartphones, to laptops, to tablets, and anything else, with strong passwords. Use a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters. Avoid using easily guessable information like birthdays or common words. Enable two-factor authentication for an added layer of security.
Avoid public Wi-Fi
Everyone who works in IT Support knows to stay away from Public Wi-Fi networks. They may be convenient, but since they are typically unsecured, they pose a great risk. Avoid accessing sensitive information on public networks, because they guy sitting across from you in the airport lounge may already have hacked into the Wi-Fi. If you must use public Wi-Fi, use a Virtual Private Network (VPN). A VPN encrypts your data, so even if hackers do intercept your data, they can’t read it. Turn off automatic connections to public networks. Always verify the legitimacy of the Wi-Fi network before connecting.
Data backups
We harp on this constantly, so consider it coming from the Department of ‘DUH! You should already be regularly backing up your data on every device you use, but especially before you travel. Use cloud storage or external hard drives which ensure that you don't lose important information if your device is lost or stolen. Set up automatic backups to simplify the process. Backing up your data protects you from data loss. It also ensures continuity even if something goes wrong.
Maintain situational awareness
This is important whether you’re walking through downtown in a major city or waiting in an airport. Look around and stay alert to your surroundings. Crowded places are hotspots for theft. Be particularly cautious in airports, train stations, and tourist attractions. Don’t leave your devices unattended. Keep a firm grip on your bag. When using your gadget in public, avoid displaying it for long periods. Situational awareness and vigilance go a long way in protecting your devices.
Buy anti-theft accessories
Even kids know enough not to put their bikes in a rack outside a mall without a chain lock around both wheels. Anti-theft accessories, including items like locks and cables for laptops make it difficult for thieves to access your belongings. Anti-theft backpacks have hidden zippers and cut-proof materials. Consider using RFID-blocking wallets to protect against electronic pickpocketing. Anti-theft accessories provide extra security for your gadgets.
Maintain redundant power supplies
Don’t let your device go dead on you without having a backup power supply. It's also highly recommended that you travel (even across town) with at least one (or several) fully charged Portable Power Bank or ‘Power Stick’ for your devices. If you can’t charge your device normally, due to anything from a lost cable or charger – or even a power outage, you can just pop it in and fill your device with juice. Remember to recharge it for next time.
If you have this extra backup also helps you avoid potential ‘juice-jacking ports.’ These are fake or compromised public USB charging ports. Hackers use them to steal your data when you plug in.
Additional Considerations
The tips above should not be the end of it. To enhance the safety of your devices while traveling, consider following the measures below. They can.
Device insurance
Reasonably priced insurance is available for your gadgets and devices. Many insurance companies offer policies that cover theft, loss, and damage. Check the coverage details and ensure it fits your needs. Insurance provides financial protection and peace of mind. This is especially true when traveling with expensive devices.
Customize security settings
You can easily make adjustments on your device settings which will optimize security before you travel. Very importantly, enable remote wiping capabilities. This allows you to erase your data if a thief steals your device. Turn off Bluetooth and location services when not in use. This reduces the risk of unauthorized access and tracking.
Keep records of your devices
If you’ve had the same smartphone for a couple of years – do you remember the model number? Document the make, model, and serial numbers of your gadgets and keep this information in a secure place. If you have your device lost or stolen, these details are useful for reporting and recovery. They also help when filing insurance claims.
Ready yourself for customs inspections
If you travel abroad, you should expect that customs officials may inspect your devices – within legal limits. Have them easily accessible in your carry-on luggage. Be ready to turn them on if requested.
Make sure your devices are fully charged before you travel. Compliance with customs inspections prevents unnecessary delays and complications.
Imagine these scenarios:
Here are a few occasions when you can apply these tips.
1: Airport Security
Remove your laptop from your bag and place it in a separate bin for screening when you pass through airport security. Keep a close eye on your belongings as they pass through the X-ray machine. After screening, quickly retrieve and secure your devices before moving on.
2: Hotel Room
When you leave your hotel room, store any devices you’re not taking with you in the room safe. If there is no safe, use a portable lockbox. Avoid leaving your devices out in the open, especially when housekeeping is scheduled. This minimizes the risk of theft.
3: Public Transport
This where you find thieves. When you’re using public transport, keep your gadgets close and secure. Use a bag with anti-theft features. Avoid using your devices near exits where they can be easily snatched. Be discreet when taking out your gadgets and put them away securely after use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I actually need a VPN?
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a necessary and valuable tool, whether you’re using home, office, or mobile devices. It completely secures your private and personal information and prevents third parties from gaining access to your data, as they can exploit and use this information against you. For such reasons, it's recommended to keep your VPN on for most if not all of the time.
How can I check security on my phone?
It's easily done. On most iPhones and Android devices, security patches and updates happen automatically, but check and make sure. Here’s how:
On iPhones, go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Safety Check.
On Android devices, go to Settings > Security > Google Security Checkup.
How do I get antivirus on my phone?
Just open the Play Store app, tap your icon or avatar at the top right and activate ‘Play Protect’. Then install anti-malware software. An antivirus app is the best way to automatically clean your phone of viruses and malware, plus it will detect malicious strains to prevent future infections.
How much can a power bank hold?
t depends on the device. Our smartphone batteries power banks’ capacity typically measures in mAh (Milliamp Hours), and so do power banks, which are usually offered with capacities ranging from 4000 mAh to 40000 mAh. The bigger the number, the larger the capacity. A power bank with a 10000 mAh battery has a capacity of about 6000-7000 mAh. The iPhone 12 mini has a 2227 mAh battery.
How secure is your network?
As a longstanding, reputable member of the Charlotte IT Support community, ITFIRM.COM offers a FREE, no-risk network and cybersecurity assessment. We perform a non-intrusive scan that allows us to deliver a comprehensive report of the state of your system and its vulnerabilities that is yours to keep. There are no strings attached, and you are under no obligation to ever to use our Managed IT services.
The two best defenses are next-generation network cybersecurity to protect your data from theft, and a top-notch Managed Services Provider (MSP) to ensure continued reliability and defenses against newly emerging threats.
We put our 100% Money Back Guarantee in writing, so there is no risk in trying us out. Because we do not require a ‘hard’ contract, our clients can fire us at any time with 30 days’ notice. We have to be good.
Among the Managed IT services we provide:
IT HelpDesk Service
Onsite IT Support
Cybersecurity
Cloud migration and management
Email migration services
Backup and disaster recovery
VoIP phone systems
IT disposition and recycling
Office moves
White label services (IT to IT)
Planning an Office Move?
Contact ITFIRM.COM today! We have the experience to ensure a seamless transition. After the office move, your employees will arrive at the new location to find their IT infrastructure ready and open for business!
For more information on office moves, or to receive your FREE no-risk network and cybersecurity assessment, just fill out the form on this page or call us at:
704-565-9705
