In the safety of business trips, working abroad, and remote work from abroad, good preparation and the employee’s own ability to identify safety risks are emphasized. Computers and phones are essential tools that enable efficient work and communication. It is important to consider a few key points to ensure smooth and safe working.

 

Information security

Information security is of paramount importance when working abroad. Consider these things when you travel:

• Check your computer for the latest updates.
• Make sure you have all the necessary software installed so you don't have to download it during your trip.
• It is recommended to disable Bluetooth visibility to everyone in the settings if you do not need it (phone + computer).
• Carefully consider where you leave your computer when you step away from it. Always lock or shut down your computer when you are not using it or when you leave it.
• Do not attach USB sticks or external hard drives received from others to your computer.
• Take care of your computer, do not leave it unattended.
• Don't lend your computer to anyone.
• Do not log into university IT services from other devices or public computers in libraries, hotels, etc.
• When finishing work abroad, personal passwords used for university information systems must be changed.

See the digital services page for more security advice.

 

Data processing and backup

• Keep important data backed up in a cloud service or on an external hard drive. This way, you can restore the data if your device is lost or damaged. Regular backups are a good practice that protects your data from unexpected situations. You can back up your data to, for example, Microsoft OneDrive.
• Delete or protect data on devices that should not be compromised, for example, if the device is lost.
• Take care of the University of Jyväskylä’s assets you have with you abroad, and protect personal data and confidential material according to the university’s guidelines.
• Confidential information and personal data must not be stored on external storage devices without encryption.
• When finishing work abroad, any devices, information systems, and storage media left in the host country must be securely wiped of all work-related data.

 

Network

• Using a VPN. This protects your internet connection and allows you to connect to the university network. Computer updates are also delivered through this, so using a VPN is particularly important! Instructions for using a VPN.
• The employee must ensure that a reliable and secure internet connection is available at their primary workplace. Open WLAN networks in cafes, hotels, or other publicly accessible locations should be avoided. Using a VPN is also important in this context.
• If you use the Eduroam network abroad, check before you leave that you can connect to the network in Finland and that the connection works. Instructions on how to connect to Eduroam: Eduroam network.

 

Using your work phone abroad

• By default, the staff phone connection is restricted to the home country only. Please contact Digital Services when you are going to work abroad.
• Find out how you can use your phone and the internet abroad. Consider getting a local SIM card or international data packages to ensure smooth communication and work without high costs. See the guide: Using a work phone abroad.

 

Other things to note

• Different countries have different electrical outlets and voltages. Get the necessary adapters and make sure your devices can handle the local voltage. This prevents damage to your devices and ensures you can use them without issues.