Pretty much, anyone can agree that business trips are stressful enough without worrying about cybersecurity, but that’s exactly when many people let their guard down. At the end of the day, you still need to safeguard your business and yes, that does mean that you’re also going to have to leave it all at the office. Cybersecurity practices need to stick with you and the staff, even when traveling.
And believe it or not, there are plenty of traps that can expose your devices and sensitive company data to cybercriminals. Now, let’s go ahead and explore the common mistakes and simple steps you can take to protect yourself while on the road (because, who knows, maybe you already are doing these)!
Be Cautious with Public USB Charging Stations
You’re running low on battery, and the nearest USB charging station looks like a lifesaver. But beware—those public charging stations at airports, cafes, or hotels might not be as innocent as they seem. Now, it’s not always the fault of the business; it’s criminals who are doing this under everyone’s noses.
So, hackers can tamper with them, installing malware or using the connection to steal your data in what’s known as “juice jacking.” It’s a scary thought, but there’s an easy fix: always carry your own charging cable and wall adapter and plug directly into a power outlet. Better safe than sorry.
Avoid Public Wi-Fi Like the Plague
Public Wi-Fi might seem like a free and easy way to get online, but it’s one of the most dangerous cybersecurity traps, especially on a business trip. Seriously, so many people fall for this one! It doesn’t matter whether it’s the Wi-Fi at the airport, your hotel, or a coffee shop; these networks are often unsecured, which means anyone on the same network could potentially access your data. That’s a recipe for disaster if you’re handling sensitive business information.
Now, with that all said, before you leave for your trip, make sure you know how to connect iPad to secure wireless network if your iPad is part of your travel toolkit. Better yet, invest in a VPN to encrypt your connection. Ideally, a personal hotspot from your phone is also a solid alternative to public Wi-Fi, ensuring that your data stays private.
Watch Out for Bluetooth Connections
Okay, while it’s true that Bluetooth is a fantastic convenience—until it becomes a security risk. Most of us keep Bluetooth on all the time without thinking twice, but leaving it on in public places can make your device vulnerable to hackers. This one really doesn’t get enough recognition because you’re probably even at risk right now.
Now, cybercriminals can use Bluetooth to connect to your devices and access files without you even noticing, a tactic known as “bluejacking.” The best advice? Turn off Bluetooth when you’re not using it, and only pair devices when you’re in a safe, trusted environment.
Travel with Your Own Security Tools
It’s always a good idea to come prepared when traveling for business. It’s going to really help to look into carrying your own chargers and adapters and consider investing in a portable Wi-Fi hotspot to avoid risky public networks altogether. Essentially, this small investment can pay off by providing a secure, private connection for your devices wherever you go.
