Readily available Wi-Fi, fast laptops and powerful smart phones make working on the road, on planes, in airports and in hotel rooms easier than ever. Although convenient, these improvements in technology make traveling offices more vulnerable to serious security threats.
A report released by the Symantec Corporation and the Ponemon Institute found that data breaches show no sign of leveling off and are more costly than ever. Findings also show that criminal access to mobile networks is easier in certain foreign countries. "Perils Mount to Devices and Data on the Road," NYT (Mar. 14, 2011).
Commentary
Laptops and mobile devices have numerous vulnerabilities including the risk of loss and theft.
There was a 46 percent increase in the amount of malware created for mobile devices between 2009 to 2010 according to McAfee, a security technology company.
Some employers are switching mobile devices to newer technology to limit the exposure of particularly sensitive information because older versions are more vulnerable. Employers also require employees to use virtual private networks, which lower the risk of interception when accessing public wireless sites.
In addition to equipping your computer with the most up to date security software, use these precautions when traveling for business:
A report released by the Symantec Corporation and the Ponemon Institute found that data breaches show no sign of leveling off and are more costly than ever. Findings also show that criminal access to mobile networks is easier in certain foreign countries. "Perils Mount to Devices and Data on the Road," NYT (Mar. 14, 2011).
Commentary
Laptops and mobile devices have numerous vulnerabilities including the risk of loss and theft.
There was a 46 percent increase in the amount of malware created for mobile devices between 2009 to 2010 according to McAfee, a security technology company.
Some employers are switching mobile devices to newer technology to limit the exposure of particularly sensitive information because older versions are more vulnerable. Employers also require employees to use virtual private networks, which lower the risk of interception when accessing public wireless sites.
In addition to equipping your computer with the most up to date security software, use these precautions when traveling for business:
- Never leave mobile devices unattended in hotel rooms unless they are locked or hidden away.
- Avoid free public Wi-Fi. Many hot spots set up by criminals look legitimate. Instead, use a secured wireless hotspot such as one on your wireless mobile device. If there is no other option available, enter the connection through a smart phone connection because it is more difficult to hack.
- Obtain an access key before using wireless connections provided by hotels to ensure a legitimate connection.
- Read company material on paper while traveling to eliminate the chance for a criminal to browse the contents of your laptop.
This informational piece was published on July 19, 2011.
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