Practical cybersecurity tips for your business and your travellers 

1. Watch out for USB charging 

When travelling for business, always exercise caution when using public USB charging stations. These seemingly convenient options, often found in airports and hotels, can pose a security risk known as 'juice jacking.' Cybercriminals might tamper with these ports, installing malware on your devices to pilfer sensitive data such as passwords and financial information. This could jeopardise your company's confidential data and even grant hackers unauthorised access to your device. To stay secure, consider carrying a portable power bank or using your own certified charger with a wall outlet. 
 
For added protection, you can also invest in a small data blocker device that fits between your cable and the charging station, ensuring power flows while blocking data transfer. 

2. Update software regularly 

On top of new features and bug fixes, software updates are also critical for keeping your systems safe and secure. Cybercriminals are always on the lookout for loopholes they can exploit in outdated software. So, with regular updates, you're essentially staying one step ahead of the game. Urge your teams to enable automatic updates whenever possible so their devices benefit from the latest security patches. Plus, it’s not just your operating system that needs love — apps, plugins, and firmware need regular check-ups too. 

Why is this such a big deal? Think of all the headline-making cyber-attacks in recent years. Many of them happened because of neglected updates. Staying up to date is more than just maintenance; it’s a proactive defence solution. 

3. Beware of public Wi-Fi 

Public Wi-Fi is a cyber criminal’s playground. Instead of connecting to unsecured public Wi-Fi that exposes yourself to disguised hackers and unwanted data interception, use a Virtual Private Network (VPN). A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, creating a secure tunnel between your device and the internet. This shields sensitive data from prying eyes and ensures privacy on both public and untrusted networks. Make sure to choose reputable VPN providers with strong security features and reliable performance. 

And a word to the wise: avoid logging into sensitive accounts (like your bank account) or sharing sensitive company info over public Wi-Fi. With a VPN and smart surfing habits, your online presence can be as secure as a fortress, even when you're on the move. 

4. Watch out for shoulder surfers 

Keep an eye out for those sneaky "shoulder surfers" during your trips. Whether you're in bustling airports, cramped planes, or shared workspaces, someone might be peeking over your shoulder to snatch sensitive info off your laptop or tablet screen. It could be anything from passwords to confidential docs or even your personal information. 

To stay on the safe side, think about using privacy screens, finding spots where your screen isn't on full display, and being mindful of what you do on your device in public. And always remember to lock your screen or take your device with you when you step away — even if it's just for a quick coffee break! 

5. Secure devices and data 

When you're on the road for business, each gadget you carry increases the potential for cyber threats. Losing a laptop or phone could mean compromising sensitive company data. To minimise this risk, adopt a "travel light" mentality by bringing only essential devices and consider cloud-based solutions for file access to lighten your load. And don't forget to beef up security on personal devices with strong passwords and updated software. 

To keep your data safe, encryption is your best friend. Whether it's your laptop, smartphone, or trusty USB drive, make sure everything is encrypted. Luckily, most operating systems offer built-in encryption features, and there are plenty of third-party tools for added protection. With encryption in place, even if a device goes missing, your sensitive information remains secure. 

Following these steps helps reduce the risk of data breaches while travelling for business. So, pack light, encrypt everything, and keep your company's data safe on the go. 

6. Audit your systems 

Keeping your systems and databases in check is key to maintaining robust cybersecurity. When it comes to business travel, ensure your online booking tool via YourCT is configured for optimal security with help from your travel manager. They can hook you up with single sign-on for easy access and make sure any unused accounts are promptly removed. Remember to keep your travel manager informed about any internal personnel changes, in case they need to update users and permissions to keep your data safe. 

On another note, if single sign-on isn't an option, we can provide workarounds. There are other enhanced security settings to explore, all aimed at keeping your company's info under lock and key. Keep your cyber defences strong by conducting routine audits and database updates to your systems. 

7. Incorporate cybersafe travel policies 

When it comes to your business travel policies, cybersecurity should be a key focus, especially when you have business travellers working on the road. Make it a point to set up clear guidelines that address cybersecurity concerns specific to travel, ensuring the safety of your company’s information and devices. 

One way to do this could be by putting restrictions on sharing company information or using personal devices for work-related tasks. By setting boundaries, you're protecting sensitive data from potential threats. It's also essential to emphasise the importance of compliance with travel policies. Make sure travellers understand the consequences of non-compliance, reinforcing accountability and responsibility. By establishing clear travel policies with cybersecurity guidelines, you're creating a culture of security awareness and protecting your company's assets wherever your team goes. 

Another important tip for your travellers is to ensure their profile data on YourCT is kept up to date. Doing this will assist us in keeping communication channels open when we need to contact them for verification purposes when needed.