In today’s busy world, the ability to work needs to be agile and safe. It takes a little know-how to keep your work and personal data safe “while on the road.” Wondering what to do to shore up your device (s) before traveling? Utilize our checklist as you prepare for your travels. Questions? Email us and we will be happy to answer any of your questions or concerns.
Note: If SMB is managing your laptop much of this is done already.
13 Efficient Ways to Keep Your Work and Personal Data Safe
Protect your devices
- Create strong passwords (see Passwords 101 !)
- Enable tracking devices (Find my Iphone, find my device- to track in case of loss).
- Keep your devices physically secure, using locks, secure bags, etc..
- Use separate devices for business/personal.
- Make sure your computer has antivirus software installed on it (and that it’s up to date and active, before you leave home!) SMB Recommends TrendMicro Worry Free ANtivirus.
- Update all software (updates often contain fixes to certain security flaws, important to have current to ensure protection. Make sure this is done before heading out, and not while on an unsecured public network).
- Turn on your mobile firewall.
- Go online only when needed (log off when not in use to decrease exposure to malware/worms/cyber attacks).
- Use a personal hotspot (may provide better protection than public WIFI).
- Double check network name before logging on to a public wifi (sometimes hackers may create similar names to fool users).
- Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network): We find that TrendMicro VPN works well.
A virtual private network provides a secure tunnel to a private server that encrypts all of your data, making what you do on that network private and anonymous. For more detailed info, refer to a blog post from one of our providing services, trendmicro What is a VPN and How Does it Increase Your Online Security and Privacy? : TrendMicro
- Use HTTPS: Always access websites using HTTPS (secure connections). Look for the padlock icon in your browser’s address bar.
- Backup Your Data (this should be done regularly but especially before you travel- to a cloud service, external drive, or other secure storage). Some examples of such vendors include Dropbox and Carbonite.
Questions? Email us and we will be happy to answer any of your questions or concerns.
