Employee International Travel Security Checklist

As exciting as traveling can be, it is always important to stay cyber-safe while traveling. Here are a few safety precautions towards protecting your digital privacy.

BEFORE YOU LEAVE

For access to your Kent State account outside of the United States

• Make sure you have Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) configured to keep your account safe. Kent State offers a variety of MFA methods to configure your account with. If you will not have cellular data where you will be traveling, please install and test the Microsoft Authenticator App before your trip. The app on your cell phone displays a 6 digit code can be processed even without cell service or internet, it is a safer method to use.
  • If you already have Authenticator app installed, test it before you leave, please follow this page: Mobile App with Verification Code
  • Add the Microsoft Authenticator App on your phone and test it , please check out this link
  • Add additional methods for MFA just in case one doesn't work, please check out this link
  • For setting up MFA for the First time, please check out this link

For personal and identity safety

• FBI/FCC warn against using any airport or public USB charging stations, bring your own USB cable to connect to power source directly or bring a power bank.
• Review Kent State’s Travel Information here
• Review travel checklists and safety awareness for the country you are visiting here
• Review the Safe Traveler Enrollment Program here
• Inform your bank and credit card company of the dates you will be traveling
• Consider a travel bag to place all your important documents (passport, drivers license, social security card, etc.)

For technology safety before you leave

• Bring your own USB cable or power bank for charging instead of using public ones that could sniff your personal information.
• Back up your files in the cloud (iCloud, Google Drive, etc.) or on an external hard drive
• Make sure you have the Kent State VPN installed. A Virtual Private Network (VPN) provides privacy and data encryption
• Always protect you devices with passwords. Make sure none of your accounts share the same password across the web
• Remember to take charging cables and adapters for your phone to avoid using public charging stations.  When you use public charging stations with a USB, you might be unconsciously giving permission for the USB port to transfer data to and from your phone. 
  • If you think you may need to use public chargers, consider purchasing a USB data blocker. Which blocks the extraction of your sensitive data, including photos and saved passwords, from hackers. 

While traveling

• Do not allow anyone other than yourself to use any of your devices and avoid others see your device login password in public.
• Do not use public USB charging stations, bring your own USB cable or power bank.
• Avoid using public Wi-Fi hot spots if unavoidable, make sure to connect to the VPN 
• Only log in to your accounts from devices you brought with you (avoid public devices)
• Do not leave any of your electronic devices or important documents unattended for any reason
• Disable location sharing on photos/videos that you post on social media
•  Do not disclose your personal or financial information to unexpected requestors 
•  Scammers will always pressure you to act immediately. Resist the pressure and do not give them any information. 
• Avoid public ATM's in the streets, look for one inside a regular bank
  • Look for a skimmer device before inserting your card

What to do if your device is lost or stolen

• Contact the local police and file a report (if stolen)
• Change your passwords for your most important accounts (Bank, Kent State, emails, iCloud, etc.) from another trusted device as soon as possible
• Contact Security and Access Management or your local support if you are unable to change your KSU password or if you suspect any suspicious activity in your account

Enjoy your travels!