SVSU Travel Abroad Technology Checklist

Limit the amount of data and number of electronic devices that you travel with!

• Do not take your standard SVSU-issued laptop.
  • Make arrangements to pick up a loaner laptop from the Support Center and load only the data you need for the trip.
  • If special software is needed, you will need to plan ahead and request it at least one-week in advance.
• SVSU laptops are encrypted with BitLocker. There are restrictions for encryption in some countries. See State Department list of level 3 countries and above.
  • Some countries may ask for an Export Control Classification Number (ECCN):
    • Dell Laptop (no encryption)   4A994 No Licensed Required (NLR)
    • Mac Laptop     5A992 No Licensed Required (NLR)
    • Bitlocker Encryption 5D992 No Licensed Required (NLR)
• If traveling with personal devices, back them up before departing and remove as much data as possible. Only take the data you need for the trip.

Password expirations while traveling

• You may want to change your SVSU password before you leave to avoid any password expiration issues while traveling.

Multifactor Authentication method

• Before traveling it is recommended to check out a multifactor keyfob from the Support Center. The keyfob will allow you to enter a randomized number, from the display, as your second factor of authentication. 

Avoid sending sensitive information over unprotected connections!

• Access sensitive data remotely only via cloud-based applications (office 365).
• Avoid connecting to public Wi-Fi networks.  It is very easy for criminals or governments to monitor activity on public, hotel, or café Wi-Fi networks.
  • If you must utilize public Wi-Fi, use a virtual private network (VPN) as it may afford a basic level of security.
  • Avoid using “free vpn” services. These free services often collect and sell personal information.
  • Global Protect VPN is provided on SVSU owned laptops.
• Do not transmit sensitive information (e.g., login credentials and passwords) via hotel business center (or other public) computers, kiosks or devices.
• Do not insert hardware (e.g., thumb drives or CDs) from unknown or untrusted sources into personal electronic devices. These could infect your device with a virus.

Do not make assumptions about privacy at any time!

• Some countries censor and monitor Internet activity. While some virtual private networks (VPNs) can bypass some levels of censorship, they should not be relied on to work at all times.
• There should be no expectation of privacy when traveling abroad.
• Electronic devices are subject to search by U.S. Customs and Border Patrol.

When you return from traveling abroad!

• Change your SVSU password.
• Before downloading any data or pictures from your devices, make sure they are scanned for viruses.
• Factory reset the device to make sure you are not bringing back any viruses or eavesdropping applications.