IT Security Recommendations for International Travels

IT Security Recommendations for International Travels

It is important to be aware of the technology policies of the country you are traveling to as there have been reported instances where authorities from other countries have temporarily seized/confiscated electronic devices. Prior to traveling internationally, seek additional information on guidelines based on the country's technology policies to avoid occurrences of risk. Below are general best practices/recommendations regarding your university technology and SCSU account to follow prior to an international trip.

Electronic devices (Phone, iPad, laptop, etc.)

• Do a full wipe of your devices before leaving the U.S. and load all the applications you need ahead of time, including the VPN from SCSU. 
• If you are bringing your mobile phone, then a full backup of the device should be completed before you leave.  When you return, restoring from your back-up will make the transition easier.
• Do a full wipe of your devices after coming back to the U.S., leave the devices in airplane mode until the phone is reset.
• Always maintain physical control of your devices and assume zero privacy – your data will most likely be intercepted.
• Use a strong password for all devices.
• Do not connect to unsecured wireless networks – you should only connect to the networks that are provided by your hosts or hotel.
• Do not store any sensitive data on the devices.
• Do not accept or use USB devices or “dongles” from any source.
• Put all electronic devices in airplane mode as often as possible.
• You should use the web browser in private mode to access the materials you need while overseas. This includes checking your email, accessing OneDrive, etc.
• Use the Microsoft authentication app for MFA. Should you not have access to cellular data or Wi-Fi when travelling, you may request an MFA fob as an alternative form of authentication method. Out of courtesy please communicate the request for an MFA fob to the SCSU IT Help Desk with an adequate amount of time prior to your travel date. This way the fob can be programed, assigned and calibrated under your methods of authentication prior to your travels.
• Turn off Bluetooth as often as possible.
• Turn off Bluetooth sharing.
• Activate an international plan during the period of travel (before you leave), if needed.
• Make sure that the device is on the latest versions of the operating system and applications (this reduces the chance of a known security hole to be exploited).
• Limit the applications on the device to those absolutely necessary for the trip.

SCSU Account

• Reset your SCSU password before leaving the U.S. to something you’ve never used before.
• Don’t sign into your SCSU account, except your personal devices.
• Reset your SCSU password after coming back to the U.S.
• If a device is lost/stolen, in addition to contacting appropriate authorities, please immediately reach out to the Help Desk so we can protect the university accounts.