Summer brings exciting opportunities—research conferences in Barcelona, study abroad programs in Tokyo, and well-deserved beach vacations. But before you jet off, it’s important to take a few minutes to secure your tech to ensure your university and personal devices and data are safe while you travel.
This blog is the second of a two-part series on travel safety tips for the summer. You can read Part 1.
Navigate international tech restrictions
Some countries restrict VPN usage or scan devices at borders, so it’s a good idea to research your destination’s tech laws through the Office of Global Services.
Buy data plans from reputable carriers only. That “free unlimited data” SIM card at the airport? It could often include malware or redirect traffic through non-secure servers. Stick with known carriers, purchase international plans, or set up your eSIM before departure.
Keep productivity flowing anywhere
GlobalProtect VPN doesn’t just protect—it connects. Access Research Computing resources from a beach in Bali. Join Microsoft Teams meetings from a mountain lodge. Collaborate on documents in real-time from anywhere with secure Wi-Fi. Your Adobe Creative Cloud licenses work globally too (though you should download large files before leaving to save data).
Essential resources at your fingertips
Bookmark these before departure:
- Tech Service Portal: Your 24/7 gateway to IT support
- IT Statuspage: Check system status and planned maintenance
- security.its.northeastern.edu: Latest security alerts and best practices
When things go wrong (because sometimes they do)
Suspect your account was compromised? See a suspicious login attempt? Don’t wait until you’re home: report it now. Quick action limits damage and helps IT Services protect the entire Northeastern community.
Remember to check the Northeastern Phish Bowl for phishing emails that might already be in your inbox. Email phishcatcher@northeastern.edu if you receive any suspicious emails.
The IT Service Desk operates 24/7 at 617.373.4357 (HELP) or help@northeastern.edu. Save these contacts in your phone before traveling. VPN not connecting? Canvas acting weird? Locked out of your account? Help is always available.
Before you go checklist
Print this or save it to your phone:
□ All software updated
□ GlobalProtect (VPN) installed and tested
□ Sensitive data removed from devices
□ Device serial numbers photographed
□ Cable locks to secure devices at hotels
□ IT Service Desk toll-free international number saved: 1.888.710.6943.
□ Travel registered with Global Safety and Security portal
Remember: Smart tech habits abroad protect not only your data, but the entire Northeastern community. One compromised account can lead to phishing attacks on colleagues, students, and research partners.
Safe travels, Huskies!
Ask for help
The IT Service Desk is available through a toll-free international phone number. You can also contact the IT Service Desk here.
It’s critical to protect your data and devices while traveling. Use these strategies to keep your tech safe during your next trip and stay tuned for more travel safety tips in next month’s newsletter!
