Work Securely While Traveling

Work Securely While Traveling

Work Securely While Traveling

Overview

Working on the road brings new risks: public Wi-Fi, prying eyes, and devices that are easier to lose. A few habits keep your work and company data safe wherever you go.

Before You Begin

  • Your work laptop and phone, fully charged.
  • A privacy screen for your laptop, if you have one.
  • Your company VPN client installed and tested before you leave.
  • Microsoft Authenticator set up on your phone for MFA.
  • A list of after-hours support contacts in case something goes wrong.

Steps

  1. Before you leave, install all pending updates on your laptop and phone. Restart both.
  2. Test your VPN connection from home so you know it works.
  3. Pack a personal hotspot or have your phone's hotspot ready. Use it instead of public Wi-Fi when you can.
  4. At the airport or hotel, avoid signing in to work accounts until you are on a trusted network or your hotspot.
  5. If you must use public Wi-Fi, connect to the company VPN before opening any work app or browser tab.
  6. Lock your laptop every time you step away, even for a moment. Press Windows key + L.
  7. Use a privacy screen on flights and in cafes so the person next to you cannot read your screen.
  8. Never leave devices in a checked bag or unattended in a hotel room. Use the in-room safe when you can.
  9. Sign out of shared computers (hotel business centers, conference kiosks) when you finish.

Troubleshooting

  • If you suspect someone may have seen your password: change it immediately at myaccount.microsoft.com and tell IT.
  • If a device is lost or stolen: see Report a Lost or Stolen Laptop or Phone. Speed matters.
  • If a public Wi-Fi network is the only option: connect, then immediately start your VPN. Avoid banking or HR sites until you are on a trusted network.
  • If your MFA prompts will not come through: check your phone's signal. Use the verification code in the Microsoft Authenticator app instead of waiting for a push.
  • If you cross borders: know that some countries can inspect devices. Carry minimal sensitive data and ask IT before traveling internationally.

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Need More Help?

Submit a ticket at support.bostonmit.com or email support@bostonmit.com.

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