4 Ways Expatriates Can Protect Their Data

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4 Ways Expatriates Can Protect Their Data

Those who love to travel for extended periods of time or intend to work overseas know that there’s a lot to consider before taking off on your next adventure. A quick trip to Italy might just require a passport and some luggage, but longer trips require some preparation. One thing you should consider before your next trip is the importance of protecting your data overseas, and here are a few tips on ways expatriates can protect their data.

1. Know Your Provider

Whether you’re just checking in to social media or working with sensitive programs like IPFIX, a quick way to put your data at risk is by using apps by providers who don’t provide extra layers of protection like micro-segmentation. For some types of browsing, extra security might not be an issue, but for things like online banking or other situations where your private information is being exchanged, you’ll want to make sure you’re going with the safest choice.

A good thing to look for is whether an institution provides insurance in case of unauthorized transactions or access, and ensuring that your data will be encrypted. Switching over to a bank near your new home may not even be necessary, and often you can continue using the same card and information in any large metropolitan area. So taking the time to ensure your provider will be keeping you safe can give you peace of mind as you travel.

2. Take A Look At Your Accounts

Any account you’ve made in the past is a possible window for data breaches that could wind up creating a domino effect, depending on how you tend to set up your accounts. This is especially important when traveling since you’re never 100% sure that your current WiFi connection is safe. With the sheer number of accounts most people have to make just to operate on the internet, it’s almost guaranteed that you’ll end up getting some information stolen. You can mitigate this effect by doing two things: 1) not using the same login information more than once, and 2) using multi-factor authentication whenever it’s available.

That way, one account breach will not guarantee another, and you’ll have an extra layer of protection in case an attempt happens. Another thing to consider is what a data thief could possibly learn from you by gaining access to an account. Could they build an accurate picture of you that could open you up to further attacks? Or is your information too basic for anyone to use? You may want to play around with account settings and see what information you’ve put out publicly that might be better off staying private.

3. Use A Virtual Private Network

Because of the real potential of unsafe WiFi connections, while traveling, it’s a good idea to start using a virtual private network (VPN) on your next trip. Essentially, you’ll be creating your own private network within the public WiFi you’re using. Anyone attempting to use that connection to steal your information won’t be able to see what you’re doing, keeping you safe from the attack. Plus, in countries where information is censored, a VPN can give you access to whatever you need for your work, social media, or the news.

4. Keep Devices Close

While your data is in danger by attackers via the internet, it can also be stolen the old-fashioned way: by getting hold of one of your devices and breaking into it. A major reason why travelers have their devices stolen is that they become a little too casual about keeping track of them while out and about. In some places, it’s safe to leave your phone or laptop on a table while you use the bathroom, but in others, you’re almost guaranteed to discover that your device has been stolen.

Being an expatriate is a lifestyle that offers adventure, fun, and opportunity. Make sure your experience is also a safe one by following these tips.

Moving Abroad Checklist

Initial Considerations

Will your partner be travelling with you?

If so, what will they be giving up in your present home and will they be able to continue with their career in your new home? You will need to check whether a separate visa is required for your partner to work or if your visa gives that right. If they are unable to work you will need to decide on the effect on your finances and what alternatives are available to give a fulfilling life (home business, training, voluntary work).

Are you taking family with you?

Moving with family raises many exciting opportunities, but also can create challenges. The HSBC Expat Explorer survey indicates that expat kids can take six months to settle in to their new country (see article). Getting young or even older children to prepare to move and leave their friends and family behind can be a challenge and should be thought through.

The options for education is another area that needs to be thought through.

Moving your child to a new country with a different education system can be a great opportunity to broaden their experience, but if they are close to key exams the timing can make this inadvisable. If you do take your family with you, it is important to decide between joining the local school system or choosing an international school.

Where will you be living?

Whether you will be living in a house or apartment, furnished or unfurnished, these decisions will affect what you need to take with you. The time you are planning to live overseas will also affect whether you should leave your property at home empty, rent it out or sell it. See the article Sell, Store or Ship.