Cyber threats increasingly target business travellers — devices, credentials, and sensitive data are all at risk when staff work from airports, hotels, and international locations. The following guidelines cover the essential steps to protect your business data and devices before, during, and after travel.

• Before you travel – Device preparation:
  • Power devices off completely before entering customs — not just sleep mode. This keeps full-disk encryption active.
  • Ensure your operating system and all applications are fully updated before departure.
  • Configure browsers not to save passwords. Remove any clear-text credential files from devices.
• During travel – Network and connectivity:
  • Never connect to public Wi-Fi (airports, hotels, cafes) without first activating a VPN. Where possible, use a mobile phone hotspot instead.
  • Turn off automatic Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections. Disable both radios when not actively in use.
• During travel – Physical security and charging:
  • Never check electronic devices as luggage. Keep all devices with you at all times, including in hotel rooms.
  • Avoid public USB charging stations — these can be compromised. Use your own charger and a wall outlet, or a pre-charged personal battery bank.
  • Never connect unknown USB drives or external media to your device.
• After travel – Digital reset:
  • On return, change your primary business account password and any personal account passwords accessed during travel.
• Border inspections: Many countries reserve the right to inspect devices and request passwords at immigration. If a device is inspected or seized at a border, notify your IT provider immediately after clearing customs.
• What action is needed: Review these guidelines with any staff who travel for business. Confirm that VPN access is configured and tested before travel, and that all devices are fully patched and encrypted.

These practices significantly reduce the risk of data loss and account compromise during business travel. Contact us if you need help reviewing your travel security posture or configuring VPN access for your team.