Information Security: Traveling with Mobile Devices: Phones, Laptops, Tablets, and Media

Does your business trip require you to bring along mobile devices such as phones, laptops, removable media, tablets, or other devices that may store confidential or sensitive information?

These devices typically contain confidential and proprietary information and are targets for common criminals, as well as for some foreign security/intelligence services and even competitors.  

It could happen to you…

Corporate officers and government officials are most at risk, but don’t assume you’re not important enough to be targeted for data theft. Marketing, product, merger/acquisition, client lists, and other data, including your personal data, are valuable to someone.

Traveler Checklist

	Is it necessary to take all your mobile devices when traveling?  If email or file access is all you require, you may not need to take your device.
	Consider the implications if your mobile devices were to fall in someone else's hands; what would be the impact of the disclosure of your files, text messages, emails, photos, etc.?
	Before leaving the office, take the opportunity to back-up the contents of your mobile devices just in case your computer or mobile phone is lost, stolen or damaged, and leave it at home or in the cloud.
	Remove any unnecessary internal and/or confidential files from your mobile devices after they are backed up. If you must travel with sensitive information, review options with your IT team such as a secure portable drive or a virtual desktop.  For some countries, you may want to consider a travel laptop which only has the specific applications and data that you need for your trip.
	DO NOT check mobile devices inside or as a separate piece of luggage. Your devices may be damaged when handled roughly, or they could be lost or stolen.
	Keep an eye on your mobile devices at all times when passing through a security checkpoint. Security checkpoint conveyor belts are a target for thieves who watch for unattended equipment passing through the X-ray machines. Or, you may just forget to pick it up.
	Once on the plane, keep your mobile devices nearby. Don't store your mobile devices in the overhead bin if possible. If you do have to store them, consider using the bin across the aisle so you can keep an eye on them.
	If you use your own thumb drive in a foreign computer, it could become infected.  Always be cautious and aware when using any thumb drive you do not own. Make sure you have antivirus software active on your computer that checks removable media when inserted.
	Be wary of hotel business centers, public Wi-Fi, and phone networks as they are regularly monitored in many countries; you should have no expectations of privacy. Be aware of who’s looking at your screen, especially in public areas or on a plane. Consider purchasing a privacy screen.
	Report lost or stolen mobile devices immediately to your company’s IT group. For good measure, try and get a police or other authoritative report to support your insurance claim.

Continue to Module 4: Medical and Health