How to Protect Your Data on the Go

The dream of working from anywhere in the world, as long as there’s a Wi-Fi connection, has turned into a tangible reality for many. According to The State of Digital Nomads Report, there are more than 5 million digital nomads from the United Kingdom alone. 

But with this freedom comes unique cybersecurity risks. As a remote worker, you have a greater need to protect your data from prying eyes. 

So, what should you do to stay safe? 

Use a VPN

Virtual private networks (VPNs) create a secure tunnel between your device and the VPN server. They disguise your online traffic by using encryption protocols. This turns your data into complex code that only the VPN service can then decrypt, making it unreadable to any bad actors. Enjoy heightened privacy as well as the freedom to share files securely.

Check for DNS Leaks

Whenever you type in a website address, a Domain Name System (DNS) translates it into an IP address. But sometimes your computer sends DNS requests to the wrong server. This can reveal your browsing history and compromise your privacy. The technical name for this problem is a DNS leak, and it can put you at risk even if you use a VPN. The best way to protect yourself is to use a specially designed DNS leak check tool (https://nordvpn.com/dns-leak-test/). It can let you test if your traffic is being sent to the wrong servers. 

Lighten Your Digital Load

Minimising the amount of sensitive data you carry on your devices will reduce the damage if you lose them. If there isn’t much data to steal, you won’t be a worthwhile target for cybercriminals. Store sensitive documents on a secure cloud server and only keep essential information on your laptop or phone. Think of it as packing light for a smoother, more secure journey.

Upgrade Your Passwords

Hackers love predictable patterns, so it’s crucial you create strong, unique passwords for every account. Ensure each password has a long and random combination of letters, numbers, and symbols. It’s then much more difficult for hackers to crack your passwords. You can also use a password manager to keep them all secure and save you from having to remember them all.

Get Prepared and Work With Confidence

Strong cybersecurity practices are every bit as essential as a laptop charger while on the go. By taking the proactive measures described above, you can stay safe and prevent unnecessary data breaches down the line. This will allow you to focus on your job and enjoy the ability to work from anywhere with peace of mind.