Summer is here and for many of you, that means juggling work with a little sunshine. That’s whether you’re working abroad, travelling for business, or even sneaking in some office hours while on holiday.
While you’re enjoying some much-needed relaxation, it’s easy to forget about the risks that come with working in a different country. From untrustworthy Wi-Fi networks to the potential for expensive mobile data charges, it’s crucial to stay mindful of your IT security while you’re away.
To help you stay secure and avoid unnecessary headaches, here are some essential IT security tips for working abroad this summer.
1. Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network)
A VPN is your first line of defence when accessing sensitive information abroad. Whether you’re working from a hotel, coffee shop, or airport lounge, public Wi-Fi networks are vulnerable to hackers. A VPN encrypts your data, making it much harder for cybercriminals to intercept your communications.
Make sure to choose a reliable VPN provider that offers strong encryption standards. This will ensure your data remains safe, even in less secure environments.
2. Beware of mobile roaming charges
While working abroad, it’s essential to keep an eye on your mobile data usage to avoid excessive roaming charges. Many networks offer high charges for international data roaming, which can quickly add up if you’re not careful. Always check with your network provider before leaving the UK and consider opting for a local SIM card or international roaming package if necessary. Not necessarily a security issue but very important nonetheless.
Using Wi-Fi whenever possible can also help you avoid costly mobile data usage. Just make sure you’re connecting to secure networks and not public hotspots.
3. Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) and use strong passwords
Multi-factor authentication (MFA) adds an extra layer of security to your online accounts. Even if someone gains access to your password, they’ll still need a second form of verification, such as a code sent to your phone or a biometric scan, to gain access.
Combined with strong, unique passwords, this is one of the best ways to safeguard your accounts. Avoid reusing passwords across different accounts and consider using a password manager to securely store and manage your credentials.
4. Update your devices before you go
Ensure that all your devices such as laptops, smartphones and tablets are fully updated before you leave. Security patches and software updates are often released to fix known vulnerabilities, so keeping your devices up to date is crucial to protect against cyber threats.
Set your devices to automatically update when a new version or patch is released and don’t forget to update your antivirus software as well.
5. Limit access to sensitive information
When travelling abroad, it’s a good practice to limit the amount of sensitive information you carry with you. Avoid storing confidential data on your devices when possible. If you must access or store sensitive files, use secure cloud storage services that offer encryption.
Additionally, avoid accessing sensitive information unless absolutely necessary. Limiting the amount of data you handle reduces the risk of a data breach.
6. Avoid public Wi-Fi for sensitive transactions
While it’s tempting to use free Wi-Fi in cafes or airports, these networks are not secure. Public Wi-Fi is an easy target for cybercriminals looking to intercept your data. If you must use public Wi-Fi, connect through a VPN or encrypted connection to encrypt your data.
Whenever possible, use a trusted private network to access business systems or make financial transactions.
7. Enable remote device wiping
In the event that your device is lost or stolen, having remote wiping capabilities can be a lifesaver. Many devices offer this feature, which allows you to delete your data remotely to prevent unauthorised access.
Before travelling, set up your device with remote wipe functionality so you can quickly secure your information if your device goes missing. If you would like to learn more about how to do this, make sure to check out our article on What to do if your laptop is stolen.
8. Educate yourself and your team
Finally, cybersecurity awareness is key when travelling abroad (and at home, for that matter). Ensure that you and your team understand the risks involved and understand how to spot phishing attempts, secure their devices and follow best practices while working remotely. It also doesn’t hurt to make your IT team aware of your travel plans, especially if you’re planning on working whilst away.
Final thoughts
When working abroad, your IT security should be just as robust as it is in the office. By using a VPN, enabling multi-factor authentication, updating devices and staying mindful of mobile roaming charges, you can protect your business’s data and avoid unnecessary risks.
At Coretek, we’re committed to helping businesses implement strong cyber security practices, no matter where their employees are working from. If you need assistance in improving your security measures while travelling or working remotely, get in touch with us today.