One Step Ahead: Traveling Securely |
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Another tip in a series provided by the
Offices of Information Systems & Computing and Audit, Compliance & Privacy
International travel introduces new risks to your data and devices. Below are a few key tips to keep you safe while going global.
Network Security
Select WiFi connections that encrypt traffic are restricted with a password and are provided by a trusted source (University, colleague, etc.) whenever possible. Use encrypted services (e.g., HTTPS over HTTP) when web-browsing. Avoid accessing sensitive websites from public computers, such as at Internet cafes, as their security is highly unreliable.
Updates, Backups and Encryption
Identify your Local Support Provider (LSP), and let them know you will be traveling.
Ask your LSP if a sanitized “loaner” computer is available. If not, work with them to conduct a full backup of your system and all its data. Also ask your LSP to confirm that all software is up to date and appropriate security tools (such as disk/device encryption, password locking, location services and remote wiping) are functional.
Encrypt sensitive data if it is essential that you take it with you. (Note: users intending to travel to Cuba, Libya, North Korea, Syria, Sudan, Iran or Iraq should contact the Office of Research Services for assistance before exporting Penn owned equipment).
Additional Tips
Take with you only the personal or otherwise confidential information that you absolutely need. And don’t forget about sensible non-tech solutions to minimize risk. For example, do not carry your Social Security card in your wallet. Use your credit card, rather than your debit card, in order to maximize your legal protections in case of fraud.
A full list of suggestions for security while traveling can be found here:
http://www.upenn.edu/computing/security/advisories/InfoSec_Data_Security_Travel_Tips.php
Safe travels!
For additional tips, see the One Step Ahead link on the Information Security website: www.upenn.edu/computing/security/
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