International Travel Security Tips

Overview

These guidelines are intended to aid campus community members who may be traveling abroad. If you have further questions or would like assistance going through any of the suggested steps prior to travel, please contact the Technology Service Desk at 253.879.8585 to schedule an appointment.

Before You Leave

• You MUST have a verification method that functions without Wi-Fi or cell reception to prevent issues logging in to access Puget Sound resources. Ensure you have Google Authenticator or Okta Verify set up as a second factor for login.pugetsound.edu. Since you will likely be unable to receive text messages or calls to an existing phone number while in another country, this is extremely important.
  • If you have Okta Verify set up as your factor, you can use the 6-digit code generated in the app to verify your login even if your phone is not connected to the internet or cellular data. Instead of clicking Send Push and responding to the prompt on your phone, click Or enter code when you are prompted for verification after logging in. In the Okta Verify app on your cell phone, note the 6-digit code for your account and type in that code on the login page. Click Verify to finish. 
• Change your university password. Since campus members are prompted to regularly change passwords as outlined in the password policy, we recommend doing so prior to departing on a trip while it is easier to obtain support should you need assistance with the process.
• Back up any important data on your devices. If you use an external drive, leave it at home in a safe place. For a device running Windows, use Backup and Restore. For a device running MacOS, use Time Machine.
• Encrypt your device or consider other ways to reduce risk. As there is the possiblity of devices being lost/stolen or inspected during travel, bring only the devices you absolutely need. If you work with sensitive data, consider checking out a loaner laptop and bring only the files you absolutely need.
  • IMPORTANT: Many foreign countries have restrictions on bringing encrypted data or encryption software. Please consult the destination country’s specific policies before traveling with an encrypted device to avoid unwanted consequences. 
• Enable device tracking software and enable remote wipe abilities in case your device becomes lost or stolen. See Securing Mobile Devices for more information on tools available.
• Install updates on laptops, phones, tablets, or other electronic devices. Be sure to update software or apps on your devices as well. 

While Traveling

• Do not leave devices unattended. If you do need to leave your computer, ensure that you have a screen lock in place or power off your device completely.
• If available, use the personal hotspot feature of your smartphone to connect your personal devices to the internet instead of using public Wi-Fi.
• Before connecting to a public wireless network (e.g. airport, hotel, cafe), confirm the name of the network with staff to ensure the network is legitimate. Attackers can create legitimate-looking networks in order to capture personal information transmitted over the internet as you use their Wi-Fi.
• Avoid sensitive activities (e.g. online banking, shopping, working with sensitive data) on public WiFi. Using a personal hotspot is a safer alternative. You may also work within vDesk to prevent network eavesdropping.
• Disable Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and NFC (near field communication) when you do not need to use them and turn off file-sharing applications such as AirDrop.
• Do not enter your credentials into public computers (e.g. kiosks). If you must, use an incognito or private window in the browser and fully close the browser when you are finished.
• Refrain from posting photos or status updates about your travel on social media until you return as it signals you are not home which may increase risk of break-ins/theft at your place of residence.

Upon Return

• Review banking and credit card statements for any transactions you do not recall making.
• Run a full antivirus scan on your devices.
• Uninstall or remove any apps you downloaded during your trip that you no longer need.
• Consider changing any passwords you used during the trip that were entered while using a public computer or on a public wireless network.