Summer means travel season. If your plans include traveling abroad on behalf of the United States Postal Service®, remember that you are the first line of defense in protecting the organization from malicious actors.
You can help by leaving your USPS-issued electronic devices — such as laptops, tablets, mobile phones, and other technology — at home. Only authorized employees and contractors traveling on official USPS® business are allowed to take their USPS-issued electronic devices while visiting countries outside the U.S.
Use these tips from the CyberSafe at USPS® team to help protect your USPS-issued electronic devices:
n Get authorized. International business travel with USPS-issued electronic devices requires authorization, which should be submitted at least 21 days before you travel (see blue.usps.gov/ipa/_pdf/international-travel-tool-kit.pdf).
n Apply for an international VPN. Use the USPS-approved international VPN to connect to the Internet, even when on your personal hotspot (see blue.usps.gov/itweb/itweb-it/international-travel.htm).
n Do not install unauthorized software. Applications like “WhatsApp” or other social media applications are not allowed on USPS-issued electronic devices.
n Do not connect to unknown Wi-Fi. Use the personal hotspot on your USPS mobile device.
n Secure your equipment. Do not leave electronic devices unsecured or unattended anywhere, even in private places such as hotel rooms.
n Keep devices handy. Do not place electronic devices in checked baggage. Always keep them in your carry-on luggage during travel.
Report any loss, theft, or unauthorized access while abroad to the CyberSecurity Operations Center by emailing Cybersafe@usps.gov or calling the United States Postal Inspection Service® at 877-876-2455.
For more information about cybersecurity, visit the CyberSafe at USPS websites on Blue (blue.usps.gov/cyber/) and LiteBlue (liteblue.usps.gov/cyber/).
— Corporate Information Security Office,
Chief Information Security Officer
and Digital Solutions, 6-6-19
