How do I keep confidential data safe when I’m travelling?
The modern working world means that people need access to confidential information on their laptops and tablets whilst travelling. Unfortunately, handling sensitive data in public places does carry risks, especially if precautions aren’t taken. Failing to protect yourself could leave you vulnerable to snooping passengers or viruses. To help keep your data confidential while you’re on the move, follow our simple safety tips.
- INVEST IN A SCREEN GUARD – when you’re viewing confidential information on public transport, you have no real way of knowing whether the person sitting next to you caught a glance of your work. Fortunately, there’s a simple solution. A screen protector makes your interface invisible to everybody – except you. Unless you’re sitting directly in front of the laptop or tablet, you won’t be able to see anything. Problem solved.
- BE CAREFUL WITH NETWORKS – If you’re using a public Wi-Fi hotspot, it’s important to verify that you’re connected to a genuine network. A bogus network with a convincing looking title could lure you in and jeapordise your personal data. If you’re surfing the net, make sure you’re checking for the ‘https’ in the web address, which indicates the page is secure.
- ENCRYPT YOUR DISK – if you’re handling sensitive data, it’s a sensible idea to encrypt your disk. That way, if you were to leave your laptop on a train, nobody would be able to access your confidential information.
- USE A STRONG PASSWORD – Use a password which you’re sure nobody would be able to guess. Using a mixture of characters, numbers and symbols is a good idea.
- REMEMBER WHAT YOU’RE CARRYING! It sounds simple, but you’d be amazed at how many data breaches occur as a result of a computer or USB stick being left on a train. Remember what you’re carrying and make sure you take everything with you.
Follow these simple steps and you can minimise the risks of handling confidential data while travelling.
