Overview:
Traveling internationally often means connecting to various networks, using unfamiliar devices, and accessing sensitive information on the go. To keep your data secure and ensure you're using your computer and organization’s resources safely while abroad, here’s a guide to follow.
Instructions:
Pre-Trip Preparations:
- If you want to access your emails and other Microsoft applications while abroad, you must get the proper approvals from your department head and the Chief Information Officer (CIO). You can send an email to your department requesting approval and if approved, send that to TechTeam for escalation to the CIO.
- Update all of your devices so that they have the latest security updates.
- Make sure that the accounts you have MFA for are going to be accessible. For example, if you get text message codes to access a certain application, that may not work while you're overseas unless you buy a service plan for your cell phone to receive texts abroad. Instead, use authentication applications like Okta Verify, Google Authenticator, and Microsoft Authenticator, which only need internet connections.
During Your Trip:
- Be cautious of the networks you connect to. You always want to connect to secure, private networks for sensitive tasks. Avoid public Wi-Fi when working on sensitive items.
- Be careful of public USBs and external drives. Never connect your devices to public charging stations or random drives as these can carry malicious malware or spyware.
- Make sure to monitor your accounts for any suspicious or unauthorized access. Do this regularly and set up alerts for unusual activity, if possible.
Post-Trip Measures:
- After returning from your trip, run a security scan on your devices to detect any malware that may have been installed. If you were using a City-issued laptop while abroad, you can contact IT for steps on how to do a security scan.
- Report any security incidents to IT if you think your devices were compromised during travel.
- If you suspect any breaches, change your passwords. Use something more complex and unlike your other passwords for more security.