If you’re on a bleisure – a business and leisure – trip, there is more to it than just flights and meetings.
People travel with valuable digital assets, private company data, and personal devices that can be easily compromised.
As business travellers go through airports, hotels, and public transportation, they’re much more likely to be attacked physically or online.
So, taking steps to protect your devices and data can make the difference between a smooth trip and a security nightmare.
The Most Common Business Travel Security Threats
Recognizing the common risks can help you stay prepared for your next trip.
Device Theft
Laptops, phones and USB drives often go missing or get stolen everywhere, including airports, lounges, and ride shares. Highly crowded places usually get business professionals distracted or rushing. That’s when thieves strike.
Unsecured Wi-Fi Networks
Public Wi-Fi can be found in hotel lobbies, conference centres, and airport terminals imposing the risk of man-in-the-middle attacks on travellers.
The information sent across these networks, like emails, file transfers, usernames, and passwords, would be vulnerable to interception by cybercriminals.
In 2024, both the FTC and Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre reported a surge in Wi-Fi spoofing incidents targeting business travellers.
Remote Access Data Breaches
Remote access tools give you the freedom to work from different locations but, at the same time, introduce vulnerability.
Unless you secure them appropriately, cloud access points and remote desktop sessions become easy targets of hackers.
Eavesdropping and Shoulder Surfing
It’s surprisingly easy for a stranger in a café or lounge to read or take note of confidential data you’re working on. The chances of this happening to you might be slim, but not impossible.
Malware and Rogue Charging Stations
Not all charging ports at airports or stations are secure. Such attacks are referred to as “juice jacking” as they can install malware or steal information when you plug in a device.
Tips on How to Remain Secure During Travel
You don’t need an extensive cybersecurity plan to stay safe while on your business travels. A few simple habits will do the trick:
Use a Virtual Private Network
A virtual private network (VPN) encrypts your internet connection, making it unreadable to anyone who might intercept it.
A VPN is an important security measure that you should always use, whether you’re checking your emails in the hotel or sharing files with your team.
If you’re unsure how to install a VPN, the most reliable providers offer apps for mobile and desktop. Simply download the app, create an account, and follow the on-screen setup instructions.
For iPhone or Android users:
- Download a trusted VPN app from the App Store or Google Play
- Open the app and log in
- Tap “Connect” to start encryption
- You can set it to auto-connect on untrusted networks for extra peace of mind
Make sure your VPN provider has a no-log policy and has servers located close to your travel destinations for faster speeds.
Avoid Charging Stations in Pubic Areas
Use your own wall adapter or portable power bank rather than charging on public USB ports. These easy-to-use tools prevent the danger of compromised connections that may result in data theft or malware installation.
Lock Your Devices and Enable Remote Wipe
Enable auto-lock, PIN codes, and biometric verification on every device. Ensure that features like Apple’s “Find My iPhone” or Android’s “Find My Device” are enabled before you go anywhere.
These functions allow you to remotely delete information in case of a lost or stolen device.
Turn Off Auto-Connect Features
Auto-connect functions of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth increase the risk of exposing your device to malicious practices. Turn them off when not in use to prevent unexpected connections.
Keep Screens and Conversations Private
To decrease the side-angle visibility, use a screen privacy filter on laptops or tablets. When handling possible sensitive files or receiving business calls, pay attention to your surroundings.
Back up Important Data
Maintaining copies of important files, whether by physical backup or cloud storage, ensures that your work is not lost if your device gets stolen.
Travel Smarter, Not Faster
Travelling for work doesn’t have to put yourself at risk. Practicing these simple security steps can help you sleep better at night.
Remember, cybersecurity isn’t just the job of your IT staff. It starts with the choices you make every day while you’re on the move.
