Reprinted from the Federal Communications Commission Website
When traveling internationally, in addition to taking your passport, take responsibility for your cybersecurity.
Your information and communications – and the devices that contain and transmit them – are as much a part of you as the valuables in your suitcase. The more you do to protect yourself, the more secure your information and devices likely will be.
While in a foreign country, you are subject to its laws. Laws and policies regarding online security and privacy may be different in other countries than in the United States. If you would like to become familiar with other laws, the State Department website contains safety information for every country in the world.
Protect yourself by leaving at home any electronic equipment you don’t need during your travel.
Before you go
If you take it, protect it:
- Back up your electronic files
- Remove sensitive data
- Install strong passwords
- Ensure antivirus software is up-to-date
While traveling
Be vigilant about possession and use of your equipment and information. Don’t assume it’s safe. Culprits are visible and invisible.
- Keep your eyes on your electronics. Keep your devices with you in airports, hotels, and restaurants, etc.
- Be aware of your surroundings. Other eyes can take information from you by looking at your devices.
- Consider using a privacy screen on your laptop.
Your mobile phone and other electronic devices may be vulnerable to malware because they will connect with local networks abroad. They also may identify your personal location information to others.
Electronic communications, equipment, and services (e.g., phones, computers and fax machines) in public places such as Internet cafes, coffee shops, bookstores, travel agencies, clinics, libraries, airports, and hotels may be vulnerable. You may choose not to use these services at all, or avoid using them for sensitive communications.
Don’t use the same passwords or PIN numbers abroad that you use in the United States. For example, if the hotel safety deposit box requires a PIN number, use a unique one.
Upon return home
Electronics and devices used or obtained abroad can be compromised. Consider safety measures such as changing passwords for your laptop or smartphone.
To learn more about how to fortify your cybersecurity when traveling abroad, visit fcc.gov.
