According to our marine insurance provider, the Norwegian Hull Club, traveling employees are much more vulnerable to cyber attacks. But you need not be on official travel before you become a target of cybercriminals.
Physical theft of devices is the most obvious risk when traveling. But the greatest — yet least obvious — threat comes from connecting to unsecured public networks. A hacker can easily intercept information transmitted via unsecured wi-fi connection like log-ins and passwords. Such type of network also poses the risk of malware penetration.
Norwegian Hull Club's strategic partner, security risk management and mitigation provider NYA, shares the following tips to reduce vulnerability to cyber attacks when traveling:
Prior travel
- Back up all files before your trip
- Remove all but required files on your device before you travel
- Remove all sensitive data on your device
- Install strong passwords, or better yet, use passcodes
- Ensure antivirus software updates are installed
During travel
- Do not leave your devices unattended at any time
- Do not connect any of your devices to open or public wi-fi
- To ensure that wi-fi networks are secure, attempt first to log in with the wrong credentials. If you are still able to connect to the network, you can be sure that the network is not secure. Do not connect any of your devices
- Use a privacy screen protector when using your device in public to prevent anyone from obtaining your personal information by looking over your shoulders (shoulder surfing)
- Do not share sensitive information over the phone, public computers, fax machines, printers or photocopiers
Upon return
- Update security software upon return to ensure that no malicious software has been installed on your devices
- Change all passwords
The above article was adapted from Norwegian Hull Club’s Awareness Newsletter. Read the original story here.
