Cyber Security is predominant in the headlines these days. With recent data breaches and the increase of hackers worldwide, it is essential to take measures to protect your phone and laptop whether traveling abroad or while at home. One simple way to protect yourself is to use a virtual private network (VPN) when connecting to the internet and using your devices. Doing so will secure and encrypt your communications and data which is particularly important when tapping into public networks. 

If you plan to travel internationally, here are some measures that we recommend that you take:

1. Leave your Duke lap top at home! SON-IT will provide you with a loaner laptop that can be used while abroad and wiped clean upon return. Any data/email/etc. can be accessed through encrypted web sessions. 
2. Use VPN on all of your personal devices and make sure that it is always on. SON-IT can provide guidance and support. 

For more information about VPNs:

https://gizmodo.com/5990192/vpns-what-they-do-how-they-work-and-why-youre-dumb-for-not-using-one

https://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/cc779919(v=ws.10).aspx

 https://www.tunnelbear.com/why-vpn

Questions?  Contact SON-IT at: sonit@dm.duke.edu or 919.684.9200