Cybersecurity refers to techniques that protect companies and individuals from the dangers of the Internet. Cyber ​​dangers include social engineering, phishing and malware. Cybercriminals can attack businesses and attempt to gain unauthorized access to their systems, networks and devices to steal private information or customer data for financial gain.

Cybersecurity in corporate travel is an important issue. As a business traveler, you are more vulnerable to cyber threats because you work outside of a secure office environment. You have the responsibility to safeguard your devices against cyber threats and ensure the security of your company and customer data.

During business trips, the potential for devices to become infected with malware is considerable. This can occur if you connect to an unsecured wireless network or use public computers or charging stations.

12 key points to ensure cybersecurity during business trips

Achieving cybersecurity for corporate travel is no easy task, but following these 11 cybersecurity tips will allow you to cover the most important components.

1. Lock your devices.

When you are not using your device, whether it is a laptop, smartphone or any other type of electronic device for work, ensure that an identification mechanism such as password, PIN, fingerprint or facial recognition is required for unlocking and access to the system.

This can improve the security of your computer when traveling and protect your devices from theft.

2. Update your passwords.

Are your devices password protected? Good. However, be sure to update your passwords frequently, especially before and after business trips. Using multiple passwords during work trips reduces the chance of accounts being compromised. Therefore, anyone who gains access to your credentials while you are away will not be able to use them later.

Avoid reusing passwords across apps, accounts, and devices, and use strong passwords of at least 12 characters, including lowercase, uppercase, digits, and symbols. Using a password generator is a simple method to create strong passwords that hackers can't guess. To be especially secure, use a password manager (a tool that uses strong encryption) to keep all your passwords in one place. You will only need to remember your master password to access the rest.

If you are staying at a property with a safe and wish to use it, please create a secure code to ensure the safety of your information.

3. Enable two-factor authentication.

Two-factor authentication (2FA) adds an extra layer of security to your accounts, providing enhanced protection against scammers.

Two-factor authentication is a security solution that requires you to provide two pieces of identity when you log in to your account. First, enter your user credentials, followed by second authentication information, such as a PIN, token, face ID, or fingerprint.

Using 2FA improves the security of your online accounts. Even if someone manages to obtain your credentials, they will not be able to gain access without the second factor of authentication. This can help decrease the severity of phishing attempts. If you submit your credentials to a phishing site, the extra layer of security will prevent hackers from accessing your account.

4. Use Wi-Fi and Bluetooth carefully.

WiFi is essential when traveling for work, but it carries the risk of stealing valuable company or client information. A typical cybersecurity tip is to avoid using public networks, especially those that lack password protection. If you need to connect to a public network, please contact the staff to obtain the official name and password.

A vital security tip for smartphones is to disable Wi-Fi capability when not in use, as well as automatically connecting to available Wi-Fi networks. The same goes for Bluetooth. Disable the feature when not in use to prevent data theft from device connections.

5. Use a VPN.

When working remotely or traveling for business, connect to WiFi through a virtual private network (VPN). A VPN decreases the risk of hackers monitoring your online activities and gaining access to your data and passwords by establishing a more secure connection using encryption. This is especially, but not exclusively, true if you can't avoid connecting to a public WiFi network.

You can perform sensitive tasks, such as handling banking data and customer information, with a VPN, ensuring that no one can intercept the data. It will also allow you to connect to your company network and continue performing your usual responsibilities while traveling.

6. Install the antivirus program.

Install and update antivirus software on all your devices, including laptops, smartphones, and tablets. Email attachments or URLs can send malware such as viruses, spyware, ransomware and Trojans, which an antivirus detects, stops and protects against.

Regular updates will keep your system up to date with the latest antivirus protections, protecting it from attacks. However, keep in mind that antivirus alone will not protect you from all cyber threats.

7. Back up your files to the cloud.

Before going on a business trip, it's a good idea to back up the data on your devices to the cloud.

This will keep your data safe and accessible in case you lose one of your devices or experience technical difficulties while on vacation. You can view your data from any device and location and interact with colleagues by sharing files, thanks to its remote server storage.

8. Minimize location sharing.

Keep your operating systems up to date by installing all essential updates. Having all the latest updates loaded is essential to protect your devices from continually emerging cyber threats and reduce the possibility of malware.

Don't forget to update your smartphone apps, particularly the ones business applications you will need while traveling.

10. Take data protection measures.

A smart business travel safety tip is to simply bring the necessary equipment and keep the exact information you will need for your trip. This can help reduce the likelihood of a cyber attack or physical theft while you're away, as well as mitigate the severity of a potential cyber attack.

Your company's IT staff can even lend you clean devices, allowing you to store only the data you need, thus minimizing the risk of additional theft of sensitive data. Check your company's travel policy or ask your boss if there is anything you can borrow.

11. Carry out a post-trip checkup.

If you suspect or know that you have been the victim of a cyberattack, below are some essential steps you should take.

• Update any pending security updates.
• Turn off Internet access and Bluetooth on your devices.
• Change your passwords!

Then, as soon as possible, contact your IT department and provide data about the cyberattack. They will know how to identify compromised systems, accounts and data and how to mitigate the impact of the attack. TO Strong IT support is crucial for all businesses..

Corporate travel safety is a legitimate concern. It is an important aspect to plan before, during and after a trip. By following all the measures listed above, educating yourself about cybersecurity, and being cautious at all times, you can reduce the risk of falling victim to hackers.