Traveling abroad this summer? Here are 10 things to keep in mind to protect your laptops, other devices, and personal information.
UMB’s Center for Information Technology offers these top 10 tips for anyone from the University community who is traveling internationally this summer:
- Always use a virtual private network (VPN) when connecting ALL devices to a wired or wireless network. Use Express VPN, not a UMB VPN!
- Do not take USB drives, which can easily be lost or corrupted.
- Do not leave personal devices unattended. Even hotel safes are not secure because hotel personnel have access to the safes.
- Use a mobile app or the Office 365 portal to reach UMB email and files. DO NOT connect directly to any University system. Do NOT remote desktop to your UMB computer.
- Use an RFID wallet/purse to protect against electronic pickpocketing of credit cards, passports, and driver’s licenses.
- Keep your passport on your person at all times.
- Use an iPad or MacBook Pro, and preferably a loaner. A loaner would prevent malicious software from being installed on your personal computer when in a foreign country. Upon your return, documents created during travel can be saved and all of the data on a loaner device can be erased and wiped back to factory settings.
- Avoid discussing or transmitting sensitive information because it can be intercepted with remote microphones, clandestine recording/listening devices, technical implants, or hacks.
- Ensure that ALL devices are password-protected. Log off devices when not in use.
- Before you travel, make sure you have the following items:
- Sync Stop USB device (adapter for standard USB cord) to ensure data is never stolen during charging
- Express VPN installed and configured
- RFID wallet/purse — to store your passport and other important cards/documents