As a digital nomad, it’s important to consider how you manage your data while on the go. Travelling can put you at an increased risk of being hacked if you’re constantly using different wi-fi sources. Loss and theft of devices is also a risk that could threaten your data. On top of this, you need to think about how you manage other people’s data – there could be laws in different countries regarding privacy and security of other people’s data. Below are just a few different data protection tips to consider.
Back up data on the cloud
Saving files directly onto your devices or onto an external hard drive is a risky move when travelling. If you lose your devices or hard drive, you’ll lose all your files. That is, unless you back up all your files on the cloud. If your laptop is lost or damaged while travelling or you get hacked by ransomware, using the cloud will ensure that you can still access all your data from another device.
Use a VPN on public wi-fi
Many hotels, cafes and bars around the world use public wi-fi. These types of wi-fi have been known to be targeted by hackers – someone using the same wi-fi could potentially coordinate a man-in-the-middle attack and get hold of sensitive information. Using a VPN makes you anonymous while using public wi-fi so that you cannot be detected by hackers. It is a simple extra layer of security that every digital nomad should employ to keep their data protected on the go. You can compare VPNs online.
Don’t leave your devices in vulnerable places
You need to be protective of your devices on the go. Be careful of leaving your laptop on a table at a cafe while you go to the toilet – an opportunistic thief may nab it. Similarly, be careful of leaving devices in hotel rooms – use the hotel room safe if there is one. The safest thing to do is to keep devices on you and close to you at all times.
Respect local data privacy laws
Data privacy laws can vary around the world. When working with clients in different countries or even simply attracting website visitors from other countries, you need to consider data privacy measures. This includes giving people the option of not accepting cookies, as well as being able to opt out of mailing lists at any time. A data privacy consulting firm can explain more about this.
Avoid sharing sensitive information by email
Email accounts are often targeted by hackers looking for sensitive information. By not sharing any passwords or pin codes via email, you can make sure that if your emails are hacked, there is no sensitive information that hackers can get their hands on. If you do need to discuss passwords or codes with colleagues or employees, it is more secure to use a phone call. Yes, it will cost more if you’re calling someone from another country, but it’s safer than revealing this information in an email.
