Heading Off This Summer? Don’t Take a Hacker with You

Summer’s the perfect time to switch off, take a break, and recharge, whether you’re jetting abroad or just enjoying a slower pace. But while you’re setting your out-of-office reply and grabbing your passport, it’s worth thinking about one thing you probably haven’t packed: cybersecurity for remote work during holidays.

Even a quick check-in from the airport lounge or responding to an urgent email poolside could unintentionally open the door to cyber criminals. Hackers know we’re more relaxed with our cybersecurity when working remotely over the summer holidays, and that’s exactly when they strike.

At ERGOS Technologies Limited, we get that most business owners and employees aren’t IT experts. You’re just trying to stay on top of things. So here’s a simple, practical checklist to help you, or anyone on your team, to stay secure while working (just a little) during your holiday.

Before You Travel

Back up your data
Should the worst happen – lost phone or damaged laptop, you’ll want to be able to restore your files quickly.

Update everything
Make sure your device’s operating system, browsers, and apps are all running the latest versions. Updates often include security fixes that protect you from threats.

Lock your device
It sounds obvious, but it’s easily missed. Set up a PIN, passcode, fingerprint or facial recognition so your data’s not accessible if your device is misplaced.

Enable ‘Find My Phone’
This handy feature lets you track your device if it’s lost, or remotely wipe the data if it falls into the wrong hands.

While You’re Away

Use a VPN
A Virtual Private Network encrypts your connection, so even if you’re using public Wi-Fi, your data stays protected. Set this up before you go.

Avoid public Wi-Fi where possible
Yes, hotel Wi-Fi is convenient but it’s often unsecured and easy for cyber criminals to exploit. If you must use it, make sure you’re connected via your VPN.

Watch your location settings
GPS tools are great for navigating new places but can also give away your location. Switch off location services when they’re not in use, and be mindful of sharing your location on social media.

Enable Multi-factor Authentication (MFA)
This adds a second layer of protection to your accounts, like a text code or fingerprint scan and is one of the easiest ways to prevent unauthorised access.

Turn off auto-connect features
Some devices automatically connect to available Wi-Fi or Bluetooth networks. Disable this option so you stay in control of what your device connects to.

Don’t Let Cybersecurity Ruin Your Holiday
A few simple steps can go a long way in keeping your information safe, giving you peace of mind to truly switch off. But while these tips help reduce risk, they’re not foolproof. Never forget about your cybersecurity for remote work during holidays.

For real protection, your business needs proper, professional cybersecurity in place, so you’re covered even when you’re not thinking about IT.

That’s where we come in.

At ERGOS, we help businesses like yours feel confident about IT,  without the jargon or stress.

Book a FREE IT Security Risk Assessment with one of our friendly cybersecurity experts and we’ll show you exactly where you stand, what the risks are, and how to fix them.

📞 Call 020 3818 3411
🔗 Or visit https://www.ergos.uk/initial-consultation/