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ITS guidance for travel to high-risk countries

ITS guidance for travel to high-risk countries

Owned by Herzog, Greg
Last updated: Feb 19, 2025
2 min read

According to the University’s policies for international travel (Faculty/Staff and Students), individuals traveling to high-risk countries must follow additional information security guidance to protect institutional data. This article outlines essential precautions and best practices to mitigate potential threats. Travelers should also consider these guidelines for personal information and devices that are exposed to the same risks.

Prior to departure:

  1. Contact ITS by submitting a Service Desk Request: https://www.albany.edu/its

    1. Provide the following information in your request:

      • A list of UAlbany technology resources (apps, storage, etc.) that need to be accessed while traveling

      • Secondary method of communication in case UAlbany access is restricted (personal email account, mobile messaging app, etc.) 

    2. ITS will determine additional measures for faculty and staff

  2. Remove Sensitive Data: Delete any sensitive or unnecessary data from devices.

  3. Device Preparation:

    1. Use “Clean” Devices: If possible, use temporary devices that do not contain sensitive information.

    2. Update Software: Ensure all devices have the latest security updates and patches installed.

    3. Practice: Use the Duo mobile app offline to get a passcode without the need for wifi or cell services. (More Information: https://albany.atlassian.net/wiki/x/JYMeAw)

  4. Review: Travel tips from National Counterintelligence and Security Center

While traveling: 

**Risks include monitoring by unknown entities and restrictions on online activities**

  1. Avoid/minimize internet activity:

    1. Non-University internet use, such as movie streaming, gaming, etc.

    2. Accessing any sensitive personal information or accounts such as banking apps, social media accounts, etc

  2. Avoid/minimize use of public wifi.

  3. Avoid/minimize access to UAlbany resources that require VPN. (More Information: https://albany.atlassian.net/wiki/x/rYweAw )

    1. Note that Email, OneDrive, and Brightspace do not require VPN.

  4. Do not store any sensitive information on your computer or mobile device.

  5. Do not leave your computer or mobile device unattended. 

  6. Do not use any external USB drive that does not belong to you.

  7. Be prepared for possible technical challenges due to blocking of various websites and services. 

After returning to the United States: 

  1. Reset UAlbany password: https://uapps.albany.edu:8443/itspwdmaint/resetpwd.htm 

  2. Wipe/reset personal mobile devices: Consult your device manufacturer’s documentation for instructions

  3. Change passwords on any important personal accounts accessed abroad. (Banking, Social Media, etc…)