So you are traveling for business or you have finally scheduled a few days away from the office. You pack your bags and are sure to not forget your mobile phone, tablet, and laptop. Now stop for a second and consider the consequences if one of those devices goes missing, is lost, stolen, or even hacked. How much personal or company data would be at risk? Bank account information, e-mails, contact information, confidential business documents. It’s all there for the taking.
Protecting your mobile devices can be challenging while on the road. However, safekeeping these devices is as important as securing your company’s server or locking your door before you leave the house. Below are some helpful tips that may keep your personal and company information safe while traveling.
- Never use public Wi-Fi. It’s tempting to jump on the Internet at a coffee shop or airport, but malicious users often set up free, open Wi-Fi that looks trustworthy, but isn’t.
- Avoid using public computers or hotel business centers to access your personal or company e-mail and systems.
- Back up your data. Set a scheduled reminder to back up your mobile device monthly (or more frequently). If you keep important documents on your device, keep a copy on your company’s file server. Aside from getting lost, devices can crash too!
- Change your password often (every 90-120 days) and be sure to use a strong password. Here are some tips for creating a strong password from Microsoft.
- Implement Mobile Device Management (MDM) software that will assist in enforcing company policies and security best practices on mobile devices and laptops. The software also allows a remote device wipe in case it is stolen or lost.
- Activate security PIN numbers on your mobile device and set your device to lock if idle for two minutes.
- Avoid using USB flash drives or external hard drives that are given to you. They can contain viruses or malware that can easily transfer to your PC or server.
- Keep anti-virus software up-to-date with valid subscriptions. If you’re not sure what software your company uses, have your IT specialist ensure that your software is valid and updating daily.
- Leave your mobile devices home. If you can part with the device, leave it home or locked up at the office. You can’t lose it or have it stolen if you don’t take it along to begin with.
- Clear your browser history after a web session. This includes clearing cookies, cache, history, and temporary internet files.
- Never opt to “remember my password” no matter how convenient it may be.
Mobile security is a daunting task, but it is also critical to protect your business and personal information.
About the Author
Jon Edwards is the IT Manager for The ALS Group. You can read more about Jon or contact him here.
Click here to request more information about The ALS Group or developing a mobile security policy.
