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We Have Moved!

We’re now conveniently located near the corner of Whitcomb and Westnedge behind the Burger King. We are the upper suite in the rear of the building. If you need driving directions, please don’t hesitate to call!

Geek Easy Computers
435 Whitcomb St. UL 201
Kalamazoo, MI 49001
(269)548-TECH (8324)

Travel Tips For Your Devices

Our electronic devices have become such a part of our everyday lives that it’s almost unthinkable to not take them with us on our trips.  With all the hustle and bustle of traveling, it’s easy to forget that our devices need to prepare for the trip just like you do.

These are some tips to help ensure that your devices come home safely with you, and your trip is not marred by a theft or failure.

laptopsecurity


Laptops

You don’t want to be that person forgetting his computer at a coffeehouse or taxi, or worse, a thief making off with it while you were distracted. Use these tips to keep your laptop safe while on the road.

Don’t Be A Target

Use a nondescript bag.  Many experts suggest removing any computer logos from the bag as it only advertises its expensive contents.  Even better, use a bag that’s not identifiable as a computer bag, but still is protective of your laptop.  Backpack style bags are good for this.

Tag It

Make sure your bag has tags with your name and phone number (and possibly email address); but do not include your home or office addresses or the name of your employer.  Just enough information so that if you are separated from your bag, you can be contacted.  This is a great tip for any baggage.

Keep Your Eye On It

Do not lose sight of your laptop – At the airport, place your laptop together with your coat and shoes through the airport X-ray machine. Go through the metal detector at the same time as your computer passes the scanning machine. Or your companion can keep track of the items behind you.

Don’t Leave It

Avoid leaving your laptop in your hotel room as the room may not be completely secure. If you do, put the “do not disturb” sign on the door to limit access by staff.

ID It

Write down your laptop’s serial and model numbers.  These are usually found on the bottom of most PCs.  For Macbook/Macbook Pro users check out these tips.

Coffee Shops/Internet Cafes/Etc.

VPN

If you are going to be using public Wi-Fi networks, you should consider investing in a Virtual Private Network (VPN). This service protects your wi-fi connection by encrypting all the data you send and receive online. A bonus of using a VPN while traveling abroad is being able to access online content that may not be available in certain geographic locations.

Lock It Down

A security cable lock  is a fairly cheap security device that works like a bicycle lock. You loop it around a fixed object (such as the coffee shop table), connect it to the laptop and lock it with a combination or a key.  There are more advanced models with a motion sensor system and alarm. When someone moves the laptop, it will trigger the alarm, alerting you.

 

General Tips

These tips apply to any other devices you travel with; your smartphone, DSLR, tablet, etc.

Get Travel Insurance

A good travel insurance policy could be a lifesaver. Get a policy that covers theft and loss of personal items. Make sure the amount of coverage will be enough to replace your devices..

Use Theft Recovery Software

Nothing on the market is 100% fool-proof, but your chances of getting a stolen laptop or smartphone back are a lot higher if you have this type software installed on your device. Typically, this will allow you to locate the device so you can alert the local authorities to its approximate location. Some theft recovery software works even if the thief has erased all data and installed a new operating system.

Backup Your Data

The information stored on a laptop or smartphone can be more valuable to you than the device itself. Protect that data by backing it up on an external hard drive or in online cloud storage.

Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Be watchful of people watching you, following you, or acting suspicious. When in doubt, get to a public area or walk into a store. You don’t have to be paranoid, just be aware of what’s going on around you!

Memory

Keep external hard drives, SD cards, thumb drives, etc. separate from the devices.  That way if something does happen to the device, you still have your pictures or documents safe.

 

The Wrap Up

In the end, nothing will ever beat common sense for helping to deter theft or loss of your electronic devices & computers.  But a combination of good behaviors and security technology will give you peace of mind and let you enjoy your travels more thoroughly!

Geek Easy Computers is always here to answer any questions or to help you prepare your computer for your travels!  We want to make your protecting technology easier!

 

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