Mr. Kringle has used this infrastructure to  make himself an expert traveler.  You can be sure that he never pays full price for air fare.  But despite experience and connections with various travel bureaus, he knows a thing or two about traveling safely with a computer. 

 

So without further ado, straight from the North Pole, here are Santa's tips for keeping your computer and your data safe while traveling this holiday season.

 

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1. Avoid using computer bags
Ever wonder what people are carrying in those computer bags?  No, you don't. That's because computer bags always contain

---- get ready --- COMPUTERS. Instead, try toting your laptop in something more common like a padded briefcase or suitcase.  Backpacks work well for this also.

2. Never leave passwords in your carrying case
It's surprising how many people do this.  A password left in a stolen computer case can compromise your personal information, bank account and identity as well as that of your business netowrk and customer's files.  Youi wouldn't leave the key sticking out of your front door lock, so don't leave your atm pin on a laminated card that says "ATM PIN" in your laptop bag.

3. Carry your laptop with you
The FAA says that 12,000 laptops computers PER WEEK are lost in US Airports.  70% of these are never recovered, and 50% of travelers losing laptops say that important customer or company information was on the lost computer.  Many of these are checked as baggage and are never seen again.  Carry your computer on to keep it safe.

4. Encrypt your data
If someone should get your laptop and gain access to your files, encryption can give you another layer of protection. With Windows XP, Windows Vista, and Windows 7 you can choose to encrypt files and folders. Then, even if someone gains access to an important file, they can't decrypt it and see your information.  Call us to learn more about how to encrypt your files.

5. Keep your eye on your laptop
When you go through airport security don't lose sight of your bag. Hold your bag until the person in front of you has gone through the metal detector. Many bags look alike and yours can easily be lost in the shuffle.

6. Avoid setting your laptop on the floor
This goes for all luggage you carry while at the airport, bus terminal, spaceport, boat dock or transporter room.  Putting your laptop or bag on the floor is an easy way to forget or lose track of it. If you have to set it down, try to place it between your feet or against your leg (so you're always aware it's there).

7. Buy a laptop security device
If you need to leave your laptop in a room or at your desk, use a laptop security cable to securely attach it to a heavy chair, table, or desk. The cable makes it more difficult for someone to take your laptop.

 

There are also programs that will report the location of a stolen laptop. They work when the laptop connects to the Internet, and can report the laptop's exact physical location. Computrace is probably the best example of this kind of program.  Tracking software greatly increases the chances of getting your computer back if it is stolen.

8. Use a screen guard
In the old days, we had passive matrix screens that weren't very bright and could only be seen clearly if you were sitting directly infront of the computer with your eyes slightly crossed.  Although headache inducing, these were much more secure than today's bright, clear screens that can be seen from almost any angle. To keep the guy who keeps staring at you from across the aisle from seeing your valuable personal information, pick up a screen guard.  These guards help prevent people from peeking over your shoulder as you work on sensitive information in a public place. This is especially helpful when you're traveling or need to work in a crowded area.  Depending on the size and orientation of your screen, they range in price from $30 to $100 and can be found at Office Depot and other office and technology stores.

A hotel room is about the most unsafe place you can possibly leave a valuable item like a computer, other than the middle of a busy street.  Not only is it possible for someone to enter your room without your permission, it is certain that they will. If you must leave your computer, make it a habit to put the "do not disturb" sign on the door.

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Although none of us can hope to approach the sheer amount of productivity that Santa Claus squeezes out year after year, we can be as safe and careful as possible while traveling to see our loved ones this Christmas.

 

Take advantage of Santa's 1739 years of experience and be safe as you make your deliveries this year.

 

Have a great Holiday!