The ubiquity of Internet connectivity allows people to work from almost anywhere in the world and make better use of down-time during trips. However, travellers need to be aware of the security risks involved with mobility. Mohamed El Aougri, Director of Sales at Targus South Africa shares some tips on protecting your work and equipment in public spaces.
- Location, location, location…
Try to keep your back to a wall (or a window on the upper floor) as much as you can and be aware of anyone who might be lurking behind or next to you. For extended work, try to sit away from crowds where you can more easily distinguish individuals. Never leave your bag unattended, and if possible always be in contact with it, or at least keep it within sight.
- Beware the public network
Hackers just love public wi-fi as this is where vulnerable web surfers can leave themselves open to unwelcome breaches. According to the Norton Cybersecurity Insights Report, 594 million people around the world were victims of hacking in 2015. That number rose to 978 million people in 20 countries by 2017. Attacks are becoming increasingly aggressive, with public wi-fi being especially risky as data on these networks is often unencrypted and unsecured. If possible, stay off unknown networks, and when absolutely necessary, stick to very basic messaging rather than banking and other sensitive transactions, which you can do later. Always use robust security software and make sure it’s regularly updated.
- Protect your hardware
The most basic, practical way to protect your work is to carry your equipment in a secure carrier. The Targus Mobile VIP backpack has been developed with the business traveller in mind. This classically styled professional carrier uses a unique Multi-Fit system to protect a range of different-sized hardware and offers a reassuringly snug fit for laptops between 12 and 15.6 inches. The carrier easily fits into most overhead compartments or under seats and has intuitively organised pockets, so you’ll always find what you’re looking for, saving you time and leaving you free to pay attention to your surroundings.
- Screen Cover
“Shoulder surfing” or “visual hacking” is a very real threat that can compromise competitively sensitive information. The practice of people spying from the side to see credit card details, ID numbers or other private information isn’t just limited to ATM tellers. Using a privacy screen can significantly reduce the risk of sensitive data being seen by the wrong people, especially during events such as conferences where hundreds of people (including industry competitors) are crammed into a small area. This simple cover uses an anti-glare, non-reflective surface and varies in screen size, completely blocking the view from anyone outside of a 30-degree angle on either side.
Targus Privacy Screens and a variety of secure, rugged laptop bags are available through all Targus distributors, including master distributors Axiz and Tarsus, supporting corporate and retail markets with a full range of products to carry, connect and protect their technology.
