Cyber security is a growing concern for businesses. As a travel manager, advising your business travellers on cyber security is a crucial part of risk management. Cyber attacks can lead to financial loss, operational disruption and reputational damage.
Why cyber security matters in business travel
Cyber security remains one of the most significant threats facing businesses in 2026. The scale and sophistication of attacks continues to increase, with cyber crime now projected to cost organisations globally around $10.8 trillion this year.
Examples of these breaches are never far from the headlines. Microsoft’s Digital Defense Report highlights the sheer scale of activity, with its customers facing up to 600 million cyber attacks per day globally.
At the same time, the way we work and travel has fundamentally changed. With more employees working remotely, on the move, or accessing systems via personal devices and public networks, the risk has expanded significantly. In fact, 78% of organisations reported a cyber security incident linked to remote work in the past year.
People need to be vigilant about cyber security. Protecting clients’ personal data and information must be a priority for all businesses.
And with global business travel spending forecast to exceed $1.6 trillion in 2026, more travellers are operating outside secure office environments than ever before.
It’s crucial business travellers understand the risks and the implications for their organisation if there is a cyber security breach.
Top 16 cyber security tips for business travellers
Travelling makes you, your data and your devices more vulnerable to cyber attacks and data loss. Here are some ways you can minimise these risks for your travellers and your organisation.
- Lock your devices. Use passwords, PIN, fingerprint or facial recognition to protect them.
- Use multifactor authentication (MFA). It can block the vast majority of automated attacks.
- Use strong, unique passwords. At least 12 characters with numbers, symbols and mixed-case letters.
- Use a password manager. Securely store and manage your credentials.
- Avoid public Wi-Fi networks and unknown Bluetooth devices. Use your company’s VPN to secure your connection.
- Limit location sharing on social media. Prevent phishing and social engineering attacks.
- Avoid public USB charging ports. Carry a portable battery instead.
- Watch out for shoulder surfing. Use privacy screens and avoid discussing sensitive information in public.
- Keep software updated. Install updates before travelling to avoid large downloads on the go.
- Run updated antivirus software. Protect against malware from compromised networks and emails.
- Secure devices in hotel safes. Rooms may be open for long periods of time during cleaning.
- Enable ‘Find my device’. Remotely block or wipe lost or stolen devices.
- Don’t post travel documents online. Boarding passes and itineraries contain personal data.
- Use secure travel apps. Mobile apps and digital travel tools should be vetted and approved by your organisation.
- Apply for visas via trusted sources. Contact your TMC for safe e-visa application sites.
- Report device issues immediately. IT teams can contain threats before they spread.
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