Overview
For those traveling internationally for work, research, or vacation, protecting personal and institutional data and mobile devices is critical. Individuals face a variety of threats when traveling, and best practices start long before boarding the plane. Faculty, staff, students, and other travelers, please use this checklist to prepare yourselves — and your technology—for the unique threats of global travel.
Before You Leave
Physical Security
Be aware of national data protection laws in your home and destination countries.
Know and follow policies for using various devices, institutional data, and institutional resources.
Research personal, criminal, and cyber risks in the country or region you’re visiting.
Purchase and pack privacy screen filters, portable chargers, and country specific plug adapters.
Be aware that border and/or customs officials may search your devices multiple times and copy data therein.
Understand that legally confiscated electronic devices may not be returned for months.
Technical Security
Consult with your IT support professional about special concerns regarding your technology or your destinations.
See if low-cost, loaner devices are available to mitigate the risk of losing more valuable equipment.
Ensure your devices have full disk encryption when available and local encryption when not.
Make sure your antivirus program is updated and performing regular scans.
Check your cell phone coverage and international data plan options.
Enable your institution’s VPN access. Be aware some countries block VPN. Talk to your IT support for alternatives if needed.
Set up institutionally approved, centrally provisioned data storage.
Back up all data prior to travel, and take only essential data with you.
Create complex passwords, PINS, codes, and screen locks for your device.
