“In the Summertime” is a 1‑hit wonder from 1970 by a band called Mungo Jerry. It reached #1 in the charts around the world selling 30 million copies. It has remained popular over time, used in numerous soundtracks, and shows that folks from many generations know the song. Many people thought lead singer Ray Dorset who composed the song was named Mungo Jerry, but alas it was just a band name. The first cut of the song was only about two minutes long, so to make it long enough to be marketable they played it twice placing the memorable sound of a motorcycle in the middle. Dorset claims the song took ten minutes to write. Not bad!
Summer is fully upon us here in August and the song tells us that it is time to “Go out and see what you find.” As you travel this summer, you will likely bring along your laptop, tablet, and phone to keep you somewhat tethered to your regular/work life.
Tips on How to Keep Your Devices Safe and Working in the Summertime (and Always)
Before you go, consider the electronics you are carrying and backup your files locally to stay at home, remove any sensitive data not needed on your trip and update all security software such as antivirus, etc. Additionally, charge all batteries and pack your electronics last so you have easy access to them to view and use.
- Email – As you may be traveling and linking back in many public places and spaces during your sojourn, consider setting up a “trip-only” email address to communicate so that your main email account will not be compromised.
- Wi-Fi – Do not do any banking or shopping online using free Wi-Fi service. Consider setting up a VPN connection to your work network.
- Airports – Always bring electronics with you as a carry on. Consider signing up for TSA PreCheck to avoid having your laptop screened and potentially lost or stolen at the airport.
- Charging – Remember to bring all necessary chargers and possibly a small power strip or plug adapters if travel is taking you abroad. Also, think about a power pack to charge devices on the fly if necessary.
- Privacy – In some countries, travelers should have zero expectations of any privacy, so beware. Working with a laptop in a public space using a privacy screen allows you to keep prying eyes from seeing
- what you are doing or watching on your video screen, eliminating the possibility of a visual hack!
- Headphones – We are big fans of noise cancelling headphones. They are not vital, but they sure can improve your travel experience by allowing you to better enjoy audio and video on your journey.
- Wires – Sometimes we must bring a gaggle of wires and that can be a problem. Think about using a small pouch like an eyeglass case to secure all your extraneous wires.
Tips for When You’re Back in Town
When you return, immediately change your password. Then, take the time to give your electronic device to your IT department or outside resource so they can scan your equipment to determine if the devices have been tampered with in any way and/or if malware has been installed.
As the song says, “life’s for living, yeah, that’s our philosophy.” Using this advice should make your trip enjoyable, safe, productive, and fun. Reach out to IT Radix for more tips on staying safe while traveling.
First published in our August 2024 IT Radix Resource newsletter