Travel safely with your electronics
Protecting your electronic devices and the information they contain – both personal and 天美传媒 (U of A) related – is critical when travelling abroad. Follow these security steps before, during and after your trip for a safer experience.
On This Page
Before you travel
Assess risk
Check the for your destination(s). Note the risk level and associated recommendations.
Register with UGo
Students and staff planning for university-related travel are required to register with the following:
- UAlberta's
In the event of an emergency or crisis while overseas, this information will help both the 天美传媒 and the Government of Canada obtain information to assist you, including: where you are located, how to contact you and your emergency contact information.
Prepare your devices
Encrypt storage
Ensure your device's storage is encrypted. As a member of the UAlberta community, your devices may contain sensitive information about the university, its students, its professors, its employees, and/or its research. This data is a target for hackers and identity thieves, and passwords are not enough to keep it safe.
Please note: some countries restrict or ban encrypted devices; for your destination. If encryption isn't allowed, access U of A data via web browser only.
Multi-factor Authentication (MFA)
U of A requires Duo MFA for faculty and staff to access certain university applications such as PeopleSoft (Campus Solutions, Finance and HCM), MyCCID and IAM (Identity and Access Management) systems, and Google Workspace apps (Gmail, Drive, Calendar, Docs, etc.). Learn more about MFA.
The Duo mobile app functions offline (via passcodes) or when connected to the internet. Logins from countries under US/Canadian sanctions that require the Duo MFA will not be successful as Duo does not permit the MFA application or its use in these countries.
Secure access
Use strong PINs, passphrases, or passwords. Tips for creating .
Minimize data
Remove non-essential data, applications, and stored payment methods. Remove sensitive U of A information unless absolutely necessary.
Consider loaner devices
U of A staff and faculty travelling to higher-risk areas ("Exercise a high degree of caution" or higher) or where encryption is prohibited on university business should . Do not store U of A data locally on loaners as they are not intended to provide access to information that may not be available remotely.
While travelling
Connect safely and use networks wisely
Turn off automatic Wi-Fi/Bluetooth connection features. Disable wireless peripherals when not in use.
Avoid public Wi-Fi for sensitive tasks (banking, accessing personal/U of A data). Use a trusted Virtual Private Network (VPN) when on public networks.
Monitor your devices
Regularly check for unusual behaviour or signs of tampering (e.g., abnormal battery usage, unknown apps installed, camera or microphone activation). It’s also prudent to occasionally reboot your mobile devices.
Be aware at borders
Border officials may inspect devices. Before traveling, review your rights and limitations at a border crossing and follow applicable laws. If asked for access, unlock the device yourself rather than providing your password wherever possible.
Review guidance
Consult the Government of Canada’s guidance:
After your trip
Return loaners
Return IST loaner devices immediately, informing them of international use so they can be wiped.
Update credentials & stay vigilant
and PINs used during travel. Be alert for increased phishing/fraud attempts. Monitor credit card statements for unauthorized charges.
Report issues or incidents
Report suspected security incidents involving U of A data to the Chief Information Security Officer (ciso@ualberta.ca).
Contact the for a travel debrief to discuss any other research security concerns relating to your travel.