Security Guidelines for International Travel

• Travel light. Bring only the devices and data required for your trip.
• Use a loaner or travel-only device whenever possible, especially when visiting higher-risk destinations.
• Travel with a clean device. Remove Restricted data unless it is required for business purposes.
• Back up important data to a secure university-approved location.
• Encrypt all devices and verify encryption is enabled before departure.
• Use strong, unique passwords and configure automatic screen locking.
• Use phishing-resistant authentication methods, such as passkeys, security keys, or MFA, whenever available.
• Enable remote location and remote wipe capabilities such as Find My Device.
• Keep operating systems, applications, and endpoint protection software updated.
• Configure and test VPN access before traveling.
• Configure and test eduroam access if you expect to visit participating institutions.
• Review destination-country requirements regarding encryption technologies before traveling.

Important: 

• Be aware that some countries may inspect, temporarily seize, or request access to electronic devices at border crossings. Travel only with information necessary for your trip.
• Do not store University Restricted data on devices used for international travel unless it is required and approved for business purposes.

• Use a standard user account whenever possible rather than an administrator account. 
• Lock your device whenever it is unattended, even briefly. 
• Use privacy screens in airports, conferences, hotels, and other public locations. 
• Be cautious of QR codes, USB devices, charging cables, and unexpected software updates. 
• Disable automatic Wi-Fi connections. 
• Connect only to trusted networks and verify wireless network names before joining. 
• Turn off Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and other wireless services when not in use. 
• Avoid logging into sensitive accounts from public computers.
• Use a trusted cellular connection, hotspot, eSIM, or VPN when accessing University resources. 
• Keep devices with you at all times and transport them in carry-on luggage. 
• Bring your own charger and avoid public USB charging stations when possible. 
• If you suspect your credentials have been exposed, change them immediately using a trusted device and network. 
• Report lost or stolen devices immediately if you are traveling with University-owned devices. 

• Scan devices for malware and other security threats. 
• Review account activity for signs of unauthorized access. 
• Change passwords immediately for any account that may have been exposed or compromised during travel. 
• If your device was lost, inspected, seized, or otherwise out of your control, contact IT support before reconnecting it to University resources.