Stay safe no matter where you go with our Summer tech list
Whether you’re taking a local trip to Washington D.C., flying internationally, or enjoying a staycation, a summer vacation is America’s favorite way to spend the season.
But before you pack your bags this summer, let’s take a look over our checklist to ensure your data and devices are protected from any threats or accidents while you’re traveling. Follow along below to stay safe before you leave, while you’re traveling, and when you return home.
Before you leave:
BACKUP YOUR IMPORTANT DATA
If you are affected by ransomware or another type of infection while away from home, data loss could throw a wrench in your travel plans and online safety. It’s important to back up your data to a reliable Cloud service, such as Microsoft or Google, to keep your documents safe. This can be a lifesaver if you’re affected by a data breach, password compromise, or a lost device. We can help you set up an automated data backup plan to keep your info safe and ensure peace of mind. .
INSTALL UPDATES
Before you leave, make sure you install any new updates to your devices. These updates contain the latest security upgrades to keep your devices safe from any attacks or exploits. Running updates before departure can save you from the headache of an urgent update during an important check-in or boarding.
ACTIVATE TWO STEP VERIFICATION BEFORE YOUR TRAVEL
Activating Multi Factor Authentication (MFA) or Single Sign-On (SSO) can be a solid defense against a cyberattack. MFA requires your password plus a unique code delivered via text or email – so consider your service availability when deciding. An SSO application generates a code without the need for cellular or Wi-Fi signal.
TURN ON ‘FIND MY’ FEATURES
Lastly, turning on ‘Find My Device’ features on your devices can reduce the headache and panic of a lost device. Before you leave, ensure this feature is on multiple devices so you can place your lost device.
While you’re traveling:
STAY AWAY FROM FREE PUBLIC WI-FI
Public Wi-Fi can be enticing, but these free connections are easily manipulated and often hacked, which can compromise your login credentials, shared files, and private information. Only use private, password protected Wi-Fi networks to keep your data safe. A personal hotspot can be a great way to connect securely, allowing your family/friends to browse safely, as well. If you have to use public Wi-Fi, make sure it’s only for general web browsing—never transmit important data, log in to financial accounts, or access shared cloud drives unless you use a password to connect.
CONSIDER A VPN
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) can be an extra layer of security if you need to do substantial online work while you travel. A VPN creates an encrypted connection between your device and the internet, which can be a lifesaver when accessing personal, private information.
BRING A RELIABLE PORTABLE CHARGE
You’ll never have to worry about your phone dying before a flight change or hotel check-in with a good battery pack in your backpack. Today’s portable battery charges come in all shapes and sizes, allowing you to conveniently charge one, two or even three devices at once.
When you get home:
GET YOUR DEVICES ON SURGE PROTECTORS
Summer can bring severe heat and storms which can cause all sorts of electrical distributions. By connecting your devices (i.e. desktops, laptops, TVs) to a surge protector, you can protect them from damage due to any severe weather. Plus, it allows easy power on and off during travel or for energy saving!
AGAIN, BACK UP YOUR DATA!
It’s important to regularly back up your important data and documents. Don’t leave it up to travel alone to back up your data. Implementing this kind of automated data backup protocol may require the help of a trusted IT provider, but when you need to recover quickly from unexpected data loss, it’s worth it.
Although it’s impossible to predict what will happen during summer travel, keeping your data securing is one less thing to stress about.
CMIT Solutions I-270 Corridor can help with data and device protection, safe remote access, and back up and recovery. Contact us today for help with secure internet connectivity, strengthened login credentials, cloud-based file sync, mobile device management, and so much more!
