subject: Keeping Your Data Secure While Working on the Move [print this page] Keeping Your Data Secure While Working on the Move
Many of us now work on the move in some capacity, whether we're running our own business or preparing for meetings as part of our job role. The development of faster and faster mobile broadband means you can take the office wherever you go, whether you're at home, on the train or grabbing a coffee in a cafe.
Although this portability can be great for implementing flexible working schedules and allowing us to be up to date with our work wherever we go, it's important to keep security in mind whenever we take a laptop out of the home or office.
Whatever your job, data protection is essential with cyber criminals becoming increasingly sophisticated, you must always be on your guard.
Here's a few things to keep in mind:
Password protect everything
If your laptop is stolen simply because it's an expensive commodity, rather than due to the data it contains, then having passwords and security software in place could stop prying eyes accessing your data. Of course, skilled hackers may be able to access this information anyway, but it's always worth having as much protection as possible on your sensitive data. Always keep a backup of your data on a memory stick or in secure cloud storage to avoid losing it altogether if the worst happens.
Use firewalls to protect your mobile broadband
Having a firewall in place is a good way to ensure that the only person able to access mobile broadband using your dongle is you. Keep your software regularly updated and be especially on guard in busy public places such as train stations these can be hotspots for data criminals.
Be wary when using mobile broadband on public transport
Although trains, planes, buses and coaches are great places to catch up on your work, they can also be popular with opportunistic thieves. For this reason, you should never leave your laptop unattended even if it's just for a second while you nip to the loo or grab a coffee. Be careful while carrying your laptop in a bag put it under your seat and you may never see it again.
Remember basic crime-stopping advice
By using a mobile broadband dongle in public, you're advertising to potential thieves that you've got an expensive piece of kit in your possession. This is not a reason for avoiding using technology altogether, but remember the general advice about protecting yourself against crime in towns and cities, especially at night and early in the morning. Use busy routes, avoid dark and secluded shortcuts and don't be afraid to seek assistance if you think you're being followed or feel threatened.
