When traveling for business or working in a public space, you probably have more important things on your mind than protecting yourself from identity theft. But when you think about it, you’re at a much greater risk than when working out of your office. You’re hauling around a laptop, tablet and smartphone containing your emails, financial information, photos and more, charging them in all sorts of places and connecting to different Wi-Fi networks.
Here are a few simple tips to help minimize your risk of being a victim of identity theft while traveling or out in public:
Shield your screen
This may seem like a no-brainer, but common sense goes a long way toward preventing identity theft. Be aware of shady characters snooping over your shoulder on the plane or at the coffee shop–they may just be curious or they could be scanning for their next victim.
Protect your devices
What happens if you lose your cell phone or your bag gets stolen? Will the person who finds your lost device be able to access it without a password? Could they turn it on and gain access to your email, Dropbox or business accounts? Do you have the ability to remotely delete all of the data from it?
Our Managed IT Service will help keep your remote systems secure and up to date to reduce chances of malicious parties gaining access to your computer or your data.
Avoid open Wi-Fi Networks if possible
If at all possible, try to avoid open Wi-Fi networks (ones that don’t require a password), and if you can at all help it, try to avoid any Wi-Fi network that you’re not sure is secured. Just like real-life snoops, there may be virtual snoops out there logging your every online action. Look for WPA2 or higher for encryption when joining a public or shared Wireless system.
Use a VPN
The best way to protect yourself while on public Wi-Fi network is to use a VPN, which stands for Virtual Private Network. A VPN connection securely connects to your business’s network and encrypts and routes all traffic through it instead of through the public airwaves. If you travel for business and need to access sensitive information from your network, a VPN is a must.
A VPN can be set up through your company to protect your employees while traveling and using wireless systems at hotels, coffee shops, or even on airplanes.
If you need help implementing any of these solutions or don’t know where to turn for security recommendations, Minneapolis-based OAC Technology can help. We will do a free security audit of your business and will ensure your business network is locked down–even while traveling. Contact us today for your free security audit.
