Business Travel

Information Security

Loaner Laptops

The ITS Help Desk makes laptops available for business travel. Laptops are freshly wiped (data on its storage drive has been erased) and encrypted, with a current operating system. They can be used for regional, national, or international business travel.

General Precautions

  • Keep the laptop with you when possible, screen lock it when not in use.
  • Turn off bluetooth and disable auto-wifi connect.
  • Disable the USB ports if you do not need them.
  • Do not attempt to install additional anti-mailware software (the laptops are already protected).
  • Do not store ETSU data on the laptop - access and upload data to your ETSU OneDrive account.
  • Do not use the laptop on open public wifi.
  • Do not let unknown persons use the laptop.
  • Do not post social media updates revealing that you are traveling.
  • Be cautious when using public charging stations as they may be designed to access data.
  • If the laptop is lost or stolen, let the ITS Help Desk know so they can isolate it.
  • Testing hotel wifi: Something some people do to test the security of hotel wifi is to try to sign on using the wrong password.  If you are able to join the hotel wifi with the wrong password, it is definitely not secure.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • When Should I Inform the Export Control Officer About My International Business Travel Plans?

    Before planning international business travel, confer with the Export Control Officer regarding desitination, purpose, and any ETSU data and equipment you will take.

    Export Control Officer: W. Eckhert

  • Where will I pick up the laptop?

    Once your request is processed, the laptops will be checked out by J. Hodges, located on the fourth floor of Nicks Hall. Contact its@etsu.edu and 439-7000.

  • What Software Will Be on the Loaner Laptop for Business Travel?

    Loaner laptops contain no ETSU data and so are deemed safe if lost or stolen. Laptops must be returned immediately upon your return to ETSU so that they can be wiped and re-imaged. The loaner laptop has the general Fac/Staff image found on all ETSU business computers.

  • Are There Rules Regarding Remote Access/VPN When Traveling With a Borrowed Laptop?

    You must have an approved Remote Access/VPN account. Let the ITS Help Desk know that you will need VPN access so they can install the VPN client on your loaner device. 

    To request Remote Access/VPN, submit the Remote Access/VPN Request (Portal) form found on the ITS Forms page.

    Test your VPN access with the loaner laptop before you travel. Note that some countries prohibit the use of unauthorized VPN. For your safety, VPN access to ETSU services will be blocked if you are travling to a country that does not permit unauthorized VPN.

  • Are There Rules Regarding Encryption When Traveling?

    Some countries restrict the use of advanced encryption algorithms. The ITS Help Desk may reduce the level of encryption on your loaner device, depending on your destination.

    Countries that permit the use of advanced encryption are found here - National Contacts - The Wassenaar Agreement.     

    ITS will confirm restrictions at planned travel locations both online and with the Export Control Officer and make necessary adjustments to your loaner laptop.

  • Which Countries are Deemed Safe for Travel?

    International travel advisories are provided by the U.S. Department of State at Travel.State.Gov .   ETSU employees are strongly encouraged to check the advisories prior to making international travel arrangements.

  • What Should I Do If A Customs Officer In Another Country Asks to See My Computer Content?

    If you have a loaner laptop with no ETSU data, there is no harm in opening the computer for examination. This will likely be the fastest way to avoid delays and device confiscation.