As the holiday season approaches, many employees will be traveling, often with their work devices in tow. While this time of year is filled with festivities, it also brings heightened cybersecurity risks. For small to medium size businesses, safeguarding company data during employee travel is crucial to preventing breaches and maintaining client trust.

Here’s how you can ensure your employees don’t inadvertently put your company at risk during their holiday travels.

Pre-Travel Preparation for Employees

  1. Educate on Cybersecurity Best Practices
    Conduct a refresher course on safe online behaviors, such as avoiding public Wi-Fi and recognizing phishing scams. Remind employees that their actions while traveling could impact the company’s security.
  2. Issue Secure Devices
    Provide employees with company-approved laptops and smartphones configured with the latest security updates, antivirus software, and encryption. These devices should have restricted access to critical systems.
  3. Enable Multifactor Authentication (MFA)
    Require MFA for accessing company email, software, and remote systems. This additional layer of security makes it harder for unauthorized users to gain access, even if login credentials are stolen.
  4. Set Up a VPN
    Ensure employees use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to securely access the company network while traveling. A VPN encrypts their internet connection, preventing hackers from intercepting sensitive data.
  5. Limit Access Permissions
    Evaluate employee access levels before they leave. Remove permissions for systems or data they don’t need during their trip to minimize exposure.

Cybersecurity Practices During Travel

  1. Avoid Public Wi-Fi
    Public networks at airports, hotels, and cafes are prime targets for hackers. Require employees to use their VPN or mobile hotspots for secure connections.
  2. Stay Alert to Phishing Attempts
    During travel, employees may receive suspicious emails or texts. Train them to verify all communications and avoid clicking on unfamiliar links or attachments.
  3. Keep Devices Close
    Emphasize the importance of keeping devices secure at all times. A stolen laptop or phone could result in significant data exposure.
  4. Disable Auto-Connect Features
    Encourage employees to turn off auto-connect for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to avoid connecting to rogue networks or devices.
  5. Secure Physical Documents
    If employees must carry paper documents, advise them to store sensitive information in locked bags or hotel safes.

Post-Travel Checklist for Businesses

  1. Change Passwords
    Require employees to update their passwords for work accounts and systems accessed during travel.
  2. Conduct Device Inspections
    Ask IT staff to check all devices for malware or unauthorized software. A quick security scan can prevent potential breaches.
  3. Review Access Logs
    Check your systems for unusual activity during the holiday season. Suspicious login attempts or file access should be investigated immediately.

Partner with IT Experts

Your business shouldn’t have to face these risks alone. By partnering with an experienced IT managed services provider, you can take proactive steps to protect your company from cybersecurity threats—no matter where your employees are traveling.

💻 Have questions about securing your business this holiday season? Contact the experts at Integral Networks for tailored IT solutions that keep your company data safe while employees are on the go.

The holidays are a time for celebration, not cybersecurity crises. With the right precautions, you can ensure your employees' holiday travel doesn’t become a risk to your business.