Exeter IT Services

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Travel

When working remotely or travelling internationally, it is important to only use necessary data and ensure that any data stored on your device stays secure. Several things are important regardless of where you are.

Key takeaways

  • Follow the key takeaways of the cybersecurity page.
  • Only access or store the data you really need.
  • Be cautious of public or shared Wi-Fi networks and computers: make sure you’re using secure connections and consider using a VPN (Virtual Private Network).
  • Use secure connections to work or study, such as the Microsoft 365 web apps to access your emails, files, and Teams.

An illustration of a person holding travel plans

Before travelling

  1. Ensure your devices are up to date so they have the latest security patches installed.
  2. Remove unnecessary data from your devices.

In the UK, certain authorities can lawfully require you to decrypt your devices. Similar laws exist in many other countries. Some countries may have stricter laws on the general use of encryption, import and export controls, obligations on individuals to assist authorities, and other restrictions.

Before travelling to a high-risk country

  1. Contact the IT Service Desk to request a loan laptop and mobile phone for the duration of your travel.
    1. Only necessary software will be installed.
    2. Your default MFA method will be set to push-notifications from the Microsoft Authenticator app on the loan mobile phone.
    3. The loan laptop can be wiped remotely if it is lost or stolen.
  2. Consider further security measures for any personal devices you take with you, such as using a different account to synchronise data.

While travelling

  • Be mindful of your surroundings and who can see your screen or overhear you.
  • Do not leave devices unattended.
  • Your experience might be different because popular services (such as Gmail, Wikipedia, and many social media platforms) may be blocked or restricted

While travelling to a high-risk country

  • Be mindful that phone calls, text messages, and internet communications may be monitored.
  • Pay extra attention to not leave your devices unattended. For example, devices left in hotel rooms might be accessed by hotel staff or government officials.
  • Consider keeping your devices in aeroplane mode or switched off while you’re not using them or while you don’t need to receive notifications.

After travelling

  1. Change your passwords for any accounts you accessed while abroad.

After travelling to a high-risk country

  1. Restore your default MFA method.
  2. Remember to return your loan laptop and mobile phone to IT Services.