Travel Smart: Protecting Your Privacy and Information Security During the Holidays

The holiday season often brings exciting travel plans, whether you're reuniting with loved ones or escaping for a well-deserved vacation. But amidst the hustle and bustle, it is important to prioritize your privacy and information security, especially when using electronic devices on the road. This article provides UBC Faculty and Staff with actionable tips to navigate the digital landscape during their holiday travels.

Pre-Travel Checklist: Secure Your Devices and Data

Before embarking on your adventure, take some time to prepare your devices and accounts for travel:

1. Check Travel Advisories: Review the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories for your destination. Be aware of the current risk level for the country and any specific requirements for electronic devices.
2. Secure Your Devices: Ensure your devices are encrypted (unless encryption is prohibited in your destination country, in which case, talk to your IT department about the possibility of obtaining a loaner device). Lock your devices with strong PINs, passphrases, or passwords, and enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) on all your accounts.
3. Minimize Data: Remove unnecessary data, apps, and payment methods from your travel devices. This includes sensitive information from your work laptop and potentially sensitive apps, depending on your travel destination.
4. Prepare for Border Control: Be aware that border officials have broad inspection powers, which may include requesting to unlock your devices or seeking passwords. The Government of Canada recommends travellers personally unlock their devices rather than provide passwords to authorities if allowed.

Stay Safe During Your Trip: Vigilance is Key

While travelling, remain vigilant about your digital security:

1. Limit Connectivity: Turn off automatic connection features to prevent your devices from connecting to unknown or potentially unsafe networks without your knowledge. Disable features like Bluetooth and wireless headsets when not in use.
2. Monitor Your Devices: Regularly monitor your electronic devices for any signs of unauthorized access, unusual behavior, or suspicious activity.
3. Avoid Public Wi-Fi: Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks for sensitive activities such as online banking or accessing personal information. Public Wi-Fi networks are often unsecure and can be vulnerable to eavesdropping.
4. Use a VPN: Consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) whenever possible for added security when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks. A VPN encrypts your internet traffic, making it more difficult for hackers to steal your information.

Post-Travel Essentials: Secure Your Return

Once you return from your trip, take some additional steps to ensure your devices and accounts remain secure:

1. Update Passwords: Change the passwords and PINs on any devices and accounts you used while traveling. This includes your work email and any personal accounts accessed during your trip.
2. Remain Vigilant: Be aware that many people report an increase in targeted phishing and fraud attempts after travelling. Be cautious of unsolicited emails, calls, or text messages, especially if they seem urgent or offer deals that appear too good to be true.
3. Check Statements: Monitor your credit card statements for any unusual activity. If you notice any suspicious charges, report them immediately to your credit card provider.
4. Report Incidents: Report any suspected security incidents to UBC Cybersecurity by emailing security@ubc.ca. This could include unauthorized access to your devices or accounts, phishing attempts, or malware infections.

By following these tips, UBC faculty and staff can navigate the digital landscape of holiday travel with confidence, ensuring their personal information and devices remain protected throughout their journeys.

Go Further...

UBC Resources

• International Travel with Electronics
• Travel with Electronics: Key Considerations
• Travel: All Destinations [printout]
• Information Security Standard U6 – Working Remotely
• International travel resources (SRS)
• Security Considerations for International Travel with Mobile Devices (CIO)

External Resources

• Travel advice and advisories by destination
• CAUT travel advisory
• Device security for travel and telework abroad
• Cybersecurity while travelling
• Remaining cyber safe while travelling: security recommendations
• Mobile devices and business travellers