Securing computers & mobile devices

Stay up to date on MIT policies, procedures, and resources for securing your data and devices before your international trip.

• Use loaner equipment. Students, faculty, and staff traveling abroad are strongly encouraged to leave personal equipment at home and borrow secure devices (free) for travel from Information Systems and Technology (IS&T), especially when your itinerary includes any country with a travel advisory Level 2 or above from the U.S. Department of State.
• Whether traveling with loaner equipment or not, follow IS&T’s Secure Travel Recommendations and Travel and Technology tips.
• Review the Office of the General Counsel’s Guidance Regarding International Travel Preparation (MIT login required) to get more information on why you should carry only essential electronic devices and minimize transit with research data, materials, or equipment and also review key points to remember if you are subject to a stop and search at the U.S. border.
• Check additional international travel guidance from the Vice Provost for International Activities, Vice President for Research, and the Vice Chancellor for Undergraduate and Graduate Education on MIT policies and useful resources regarding protection of MIT data and materials and other travel logistics.
• Determine the risk level of your research data and administrative information with the Written Information Security Program (WISP).
• Anything you take out of the U.S. — including data on laptops and cellphones — is subject to export control. Learn how export control affects you.
• Learn more about these tips and others in this brief presentation on top things to know about technology when traveling abroad (PDF).

Download or update these tools and capabilities to your electronic devices before you travel to enhance security and connectivity:

• eduroam: WiFi network available at participating universities, research centers, and schools using your MIT credentials.
• GlobalProtect: MIT virtual private network (VPN).
• CrowdStrike: cyber threat protection.
• Sophos: anti-virus software.
• Device encryption: contact MIT IS&T for assistance.
• International calling: contact your carrier to see if you are eligible to add to your existing service.

Program important phone numbers into your mobile devices and carry a printed list of those numbers with you during your travels. In addition to key individuals and offices, your list should include:

• International access codes for calls to and from the U.S.
• Local emergency 911-equivalent numbers (PDF).