Winter is in full swing, and many of us are looking for ways to escape the bitter cold. Whether it is a spontaneous excursion or a carefully planned spring break, you are likely to be traveling with personal electronic devices. Before leaving, remember that ITS Information Assurance (IA) strongly recommends you keep devices used for U-M work at home.
Here are some basic tips to help you avoid unnecessary headaches by keeping your data and devices safe.
Only Take What You Need
- Don't take devices that you won't need.
- Use encrypted devices if you are traveling with U-M data. Learn how to Encrypt Your Data, which begins with setting your devices to require a password, passcode, or other authorization to be unlocked.
Avoid Common Pitfalls
- Do not leave your devices unattended in public.
- Never enter or access sensitive data when using a shared or public computer. For example, do not enter your U-M or personal account credentials.
- Don't use free charging stations. Always pack your own chargers and cords.
- Be cautious about sharing location and other sensitive information online.
If Your Device is Lost or Stolen
- Contact local authorities to report the loss or theft.
- Change the passwords for access to sensitive personal services, like email and banking.
- If it is a U-M device, contact the IT Service Center for assistance in changing your U-M passwords.
Visit Safe Computing While Traveling on the Safe Computing website for more information. See International Travel with Technology for important guidance for travel outside the United States.