In a globalized environment, the mobility of top executives is common and necessary for business development. However, each professional trip multiplies the risks of targeted cyberattacks, exposure of sensitive data, and loss of devices containing critical information for the organization.
According to leading cybersecurity consultancies, over 70% of data breach incidents in large companies originate from unauthorized access via mobile or portable devices outside of a secure corporate environment. Therefore, cybersecurity in business travel must be treated as a priority in the strategic plan of any organization.
Executives and CEOs: a primary target for cybercrime
Executives not only have privileged access to the company’s most valuable information, but they are also often the focus of sophisticated phishing campaigns, targeted attacks, and digital espionage. Any lapse in attention at an airport, a VIP lounge, or a hotel can have serious consequences for the company and its clients.
Common risk factors:
- Use of public or insecure Wi-Fi networks.
- Loss or theft of devices.
- Lack of robust encryption or authentication.
- Social engineering attacks, including in person, during conferences or international meetings.
- Downloads or connections to equipment not controlled by the organization.
Cybersecurity culture: the human factor makes the difference
The IT department can establish technical barriers, but real protection starts with the awareness and personal responsibility of executives. Training and raising awareness among executive teams on basic and advanced digital security protocols is the most cost-effective long-term investment.
Some key recommendations for traveling safely:
- Carry only essential information, and if possible, use secondary devices specifically configured for travel.
- Update and encrypt all devices and accounts before traveling.
- Always use the company VPN for connections outside the office.
- Avoid sharing locations or plans on social media in real-time.
- Do not connect unknown USB drives or accessories to corporate devices.
- Have remote wipe systems in case of loss or theft.
Essential cybersecurity checklist for corporate travel
Below is a table that can be printed, shared, or incorporated into the company’s internal protocols to protect sensitive information during travel:
| Stage | Recommended Action | Purpose | Responsible |
|---|---|---|---|
| Before the trip | Review security updates and patches | Avoid known vulnerabilities | User/IT |
| Back up sensitive data | Recover information in case of incidents | User/IT | |
| Set up multifactor authentication and encryption | Prevent unauthorized access | User/IT | |
| Prepare “travel” devices with limited access | Reduce impact in case of loss/theft | User/IT | |
| During the trip | Use only trusted networks or corporate VPN | Avoid attacks on public Wi-Fi | User |
| Keep devices under constant physical surveillance | Prevent theft and unauthorized physical access | User | |
| Do not open suspicious files or links | Avoid phishing and malware attacks | User | |
| Do not leave sessions open in apps or portals | Protect data against loss | User | |
| After the trip | Change critical passwords | Prevent access with stolen data | User |
| Review logs and recent activity | Detect anomalous access | User/IT | |
| Delete temporary data and restore devices | Eliminate potential traces of activity | User/IT |
Conclusion
Cybersecurity for CEOs and executives on the go is much more than a technical issue: it is a strategic obligation and a demonstration of responsible leadership. Organizations that invest in prevention, training, and a culture of security are the best prepared to protect their reputation, assets, and the trust of their clients under any circumstance.
Investing in good practices, clear protocols, and the right technology turns every trip into a business opportunity… and not into a threat to the company’s future.
Ready to strengthen cybersecurity in your company? Share this checklist with your executive team and implement it on your next trip. Your information and your reputation will thank you.