Information security is an often-overlooked consideration in business travel. However, travelling staff may be transporting important or confidential files for clients, so formalised preparation is essential. These 6 simple steps will help you keep your data safe, especially while overseas.

1. Update Antivirus Software Before Your Trip

Rather than clicking, “remind me tomorrow” every time an antivirus software notification pops up on your screen, follow the prompts and update as soon as possible. The longer you leave your computer without sufficient protection, the more susceptible your devices are to potential attackers.

If your computer already has antivirus software, you may not need to invest in a completely new one. Check the status of your computer’s antivirus software before your trip, and ensure it has the current version installed. Updates are generally automatic and relatively quick. Most antivirus systems are configured to perform one scan a week, although you can customise the schedule for added protection. Set your software to do a full scan once a week, and learn how to run a manual ‘quick’ scan any time you feel your PC could be at risk.

2. Backup Your Data Before You Leave

Travelling with a computer or device can be risky. If it’s in the overhead or check-in luggage there’s always the possibility it could be damaged during the flight. If important files are hacked or corrupted overseas, it’s important to have a backup plan.

At the risk of losing everything while travelling, one of the best security strategies you can adopt is to backup your data. Use a portable hard drive or encrypted USB stick to backup files before you leave the office. Furthermore, consider removing any sensitive or confidential material from your laptop. Note that removable media like these must be carried with significant care.

3. Use A VPN

A VPN (Virtual Private Network), uses encryption to safeguard your browsing data while online. It is important to ensure data is being transmitted on a secure network. When conducting business, online privacy should always be taken in serious regard, however while travelling or out of the office, it’s easy to forget. A VPN for private web browsing should always be used when connecting in public, all you need to do is click ‘connect’ and let the VPN secure your security and privacy while you browse the Internet.

4. Turn Off Share Settings

Share settings are oftentimes automatically switched on, whether it be because of regular share activities with colleagues and friends, or because of your personal setting preferences. Before connecting to any network that you are not familiar with, ensure you switch off your sharing settings to secure your devices against hackers.

5. Be Cautious When It Comes To Hotel WiFi And Public Networks

Only install antivirus updates while your computer is connected to your home or business WiFi source. This is because hackers often try and push fraudulent notifications, disguised as antivirus updates, to unsuspecting users. These viruses can do a lot of damage to your device and data, which is why it’s important to downloading while connected to public networks.

Limiting the use of unsecured public WiFi networks at restaurants, hotels, and airports, will protect your computer from possible threats. If you are unsure about the hotel network, speak with the concierge before connecting, and if for whatever reason it doesn’t feel right, avoid using any personal usernames and passwords, or simply disconnect.

6. Implement an Information Security Management System

Information Security Management standards are set in order to protect the information of Australian businesses. ISO 27001 is the international standard for information security management systems.

An ISO 27001 requires that a business sets policies for teleworking (including controls for public places), mobile device management, Bring Your Own Device and Acceptable Use, which all come into play when people are working remotely.

For more information on how to safeguard your data with an information security management system compliant with ISO 27001, download your free copy of our popular Whitepaper below: