Cyber Security

Working securely from vacation: How to protect business data on the go

As the summer season rolls on, many professionals are looking forward to the moments of relaxation offered by the long-awaited holidays. However, in our interconnected world, completely disconnecting from work can be difficult even during the holiday season. For those who plan to cover their tasks between beach visits and sightseeing, it’s important to prioritize cybersecurity. Here’s how to ensure your sensitive business data stays safe while you’re on the go:

Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)

When you connect to the Internet at a hotel, café, or airport, your data becomes vulnerable to hacking. A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, making it harder for cybercriminals to steal sensitive data. Make sure you’re using a reliable, professional-grade VPN when accessing business data or systems.

Keep your devices safe

The security of physical devices is as important as digital security. Never leave your devices unattended in public places and consider using a privacy screen to ensure your screen is not visible to third parties. Plus, always lock your devices when they’re not in use.

Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA)

MFA adds one or more extra layers of security to your digital accounts by requiring more than one type of authentication before access is granted. This can be a combination of something you know (like a password), something you have (like your phone), and something you are (like a fingerprint or facial recognition).

Beware of phishing attacks

Cybercriminals are known to take advantage of travelers, so be extra careful with any emails or messages you receive that don’t seem ordinary to you. Don’t click on suspicious links and double-check the sender’s information before responding to any requests for information.

Keep your software up to date

Software updates often include patches for security vulnerabilities, so it’s important to keep all your devices up to date. Turn on automatic updates, if possible, to make sure you’re always running the latest versions of your software.

Use strong, unique passwords

Avoid using the same password for multiple accounts, as this makes it easier for hackers to gain access to your data. Consider using a password manager to create and store complex passwords.

Limit the use of public Wi-Fi

While it can be tempting to use free public Wi-Fi, these networks are often unsecured and can be a hotbed for cybercriminal activity. If you must use public Wi-Fi, avoid accessing sensitive business information or making financial transactions.

Choose a reliable Endpoint Security solution

Finally, consider implementing an advanced security solution like Managed Detection and Response (MDR). MDR provides continuous monitoring, detection, and response to threats across all your devices, regardless of their location. This means that even when you’re on the road, you can be sure that your devices are constantly being monitored for any sign of a cyberattack. So, as you enjoy your vacation, an MDR solution can give you the peace of mind you need.

Holidays are a time to relax and enjoy carefree moments. By taking proactive measures, you can ensure you’re protecting your business data during your holiday time. Remember, cybersecurity is not a destination, but a journey. Safe travels!