Maintain Cybersecurity When Employees Travel

Maintain Cybersecurity When Employees Travel

Now that many COVID-19 restrictions are being lifted, more employees are travelling again. Business travel provides many opportunities and benefits, but organizations face heightened cybersecurity risks; when employees travel, they often carry valuable data and may not always be careful about securing their devices. Share the following cybersecurity tips with employees to help keep their personal and professional data safe while travelling:

  • Wi-Fi safety—Unsecure Wi-Fi networks may give cybercriminals easier access to devices and data when employees use this internet connection. The network name and precise login procedures should be confirmed with the appropriate staff before connecting to public Wi-Fi. Sensitive activities, such as banking or confidential work-related projects, should not be conducted on public Wi-Fi networks.
  • Importance of virtual private networks (VPNs)—When using a VPN, all online traffic is routed through an encrypted virtual tunnel. This type of network helps reduce the risk of cyberattacks by establishing a secure connection between users and the internet. Employees should use the VPNs created by their employer whenever possible, especially during business travel.
  • Physical security—Encourage employees to never leave their devices unattended. Most travellers let their guard down once they arrive at their destination, but this can make them susceptible to theft.
  • Software updates—Employees should be required to regularly update software on all their devices. These updates are often developed to patch any security vulnerabilities in the software and reduce opportunities for cybercriminals to attack.
  • Response plans—Organizations should maintain a specific cyber-response plan that outlines steps employees should take when devices containing confidential information are compromised, lost or stolen on the road or abroad.

Business travellers often carry sensitive data on various devices, making them vulnerable to cyberattacks. However, ensuring they know how to take the proper precautions while travelling can help keep their devices and data secure.

Did you know that 60% of small and medium businesses don’t survive after a cyber attack. Protect your business with Cyber Insurance, call us at 780.424.2727 or click here to get a quote.