How To Keep Your Data And Devices Safe On The Move

Loss of mobile devices and the subsequent loss of data is a nightmare that frequent business travellers face. To avoid having sensitive data stolen or devices infected, Vinoo Thomas, Product Manager, McAfee Labs recommends the following safety tips before and during a trip to ensure that data and devices stay safe:

Before you go for your trip, it is important to:

Backup your data as this will ensure that you can retrieve your data, even if your mobile device is lost or stolen.

Install antivirus software on your device. Antivirus software is especially important since mobile malware is on the rise. Installing security can provide antivirus and anti-spyware protection, along with a host of other security features across all of your devices: computers, laptops, smartphones, and tablets.

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Use lock, locate and wipe software. This allows you to remotely lock and delete the information from your device in case it is lost or stolen, as well as locate your device.

Password-protect your device to keep your data safe. This prevents strangers from accessing your data, if your device is lost or left unattended. It is advisable to use a random string of numbers, letters, and symbols rather than your birthday or something that can be easily guessed. You may also want to strengthen the security of your online passwords, especially for banking sites.

Be prepared in case your phone is lost or stolen. Have the phone number or website of your carrier with you so you can report a lost or stolen phone and suspend your service if necessary. In some countries, such as the U.K., you need the IMEI number, or serial number of your phone, to file a report with the police. Check online for how to retrieve your IMEI number.

Disable automatic connections. Make sure that your computer is not set up to automatically connect to any wireless networks within your range.

Consider a virtual private network (VPN) service. VPNs encrypt your data so that it cannot be intercepted by cybercrooks. With a VPN service you don’t have to worry about whether or not your hotel Wi-Fi is secure.

It is important to be alert and maintain safety during your trip too.

Be suspicious of connecting to free wireless hotspots. When visiting Wi-Fi hotspots at airports, hotels and cafes, keep in mind that criminals can set up free wireless access points (“free Wi-Fi”) and use software that’s readily available on the Internet to track your Web surfing and potentially steal information such as passwords and logins.

Turn off file sharing when you are on the road to prevent hackers from stealing sensitive data from your computer.

Logout of your accounts completely, if you have to use a shared computer at a hotel or cafe. This way, someone using the computer after you cannot access your personal information. Also, be aware that public computers often carry malware, so be cautious when using them and check to make sure that the computer you use has active and up-to-date security software on it before you log on. Even if it does have security, limit your exposure by only using it for the most basic tasks.

If you do mobile banking, make sure to download your bank’s official app. This way you know you’re visiting the right website each time, and not a copycat site. However, avoid saving your login credentials. If your device falls into the wrong hands, you don’t want someone logging into your financial accounts.

Make sure that the websites you visit are using a secure connection. This is especially important when you are on a shared computer or using a wireless network that may or may not be secure. Look for “https://” at the beginning of the web address instead of just “http://” since this indicates that the site uses encryption, which scrambles the information so that third party cannot read it. Also look for the padlock icon, which is another tip that the site uses a secure connection.

If your device starts acting strangely, avoid using it for online banking until you can get it checked out. You should also avoid entering any personal information on the device until you know that it is free of viruses or spyware. If you think your computer, email or voicemail has been hacked, immediately change your passwords. If you fear that your financial details have been compromised, contact your account providers to make them aware of the situation.

Immediately report your lost or stolen devices. Smartphones, tablets and laptops are great traveling companions, but they are easily lost or stolen, especially in airports. If you lose your device, report it to your carrier and activate your remote locate, lock and wipe software, if you have it. You may also want to file a report with local police or airport security in case your device is recovered.

Make use of the safe search technology. This way you can avoid running into dangerous travel-related searches or websites. It might surprise you to learn that within the top 100 results of daily top search terms nearly 50 percent lead to malicious sites.

Checking your devices when you return from your trip, helps you assure their safety and the safety of the information they carry.

Check your credit cards and wireless statements for suspicious charges. Make sure that all the charges you incurred are accurate, and check to see if there are any charges that you do not recognise. If you see anything suspicious, immediately contact your account provider to determine if your account has been compromised.

By taking just a few precautions and staying aware of the threats, safety of devices and data can be ensured.