Travelling Securely

International travel for research can have many benefits. However, given geopolitical realities, Canadian researchers may be targeted by foreign actors attempting to gain access to sensitive data, partnerships and proprietary information. Regardless of your position, research or role at MRU, you could be a potential person of interest to foreign actors. Therefore, it is important that you are aware of potential threats to minimize your risk when travelling.

To help you stay safe, ORSCE offers these tips.

Before you travel:

• Assess the level of risk associated with your travel because of your area of research, particularly in sensitive areas. If you are unsure, request a travel briefing from ORSCE.
• Consult the Government of Canada’s travel advisory website and take relevant precautions associated with your destination.
• Complete a Pre-Travel Authorization in Emburse Enterprise, an  Off Campus Activity Registry Form One and register with the Government of Canada (Note: this registration is for Canadian citizens, if you are a citizen of another country you will need to research to see if a similar registration system is available).
• Download the International SOS App and set up your account.
• Remember that border agents in any country may require you to unlock your electronic devices so that they can conduct an examination of the contents contained on the device. If you don't comply, they may deny you entry and detain you as long as they choose. Officials may also seize your devices. 
• Use prepaid cell phones or travel safe devices when possible:
  • Note this may be an eligible expense in certain external grants. Contact Suman Panta, Research Finance Analyst for more information.

While you are away:

If you are a victim of a crime or suspect you are being targeted, contact the Canadian consulate immediately and then your University contact or Campus Security (403.440.5900), once it’s practical to do so. 

For emergencies while traveling outside Canada, contact the Government of Canada (collect) at 1-613-996-8885 or International SOS, member #27AYCA49888  International SOS for additional assistance.

For additional resources and Guidance Documents, please visit Risk Management’s Office Campus Activities/Travel webpage.

When you travel, others can access your information in two primary ways without your knowledge.

Human Risk

Human risk is associated with the disclosure of information to others through personal interactions:

• Limit the amount of information or data you are travelling with
• Refrain from talking about sensitive parts of your research or potential future research in public places, or with contacts you have just met
• Elicitation, cultivation, and entrapment are potential dangers, so be aware 
• Avoid using hotel, conference, or public computers and phones because someone may be monitoring them

• Limit information you share on social media on your travel and not post real-time updates

Cyber Risk

Cyber Risk is the risk associated with computer software, systems, and networks:

• Avoid connecting to public/unsecured networks, including hotel WiFi, without using a Virtual Private Network (VPN)
• Only travel with the necessities, including research data and results
• Avoid using public charging stations
• Always maintain positive control of your devices and their peripherals
• Turn off devices when travelling through security and customs
• Do not plug an unknown device, including USB keys, cameras or digital picture frames, into any of your equipment. If you do, assumed your device has been compromised
• Do not access the MRU network or cloud storage without using a VPN
• If possible, use the “Travel Mode” features in applications to temporarily remove files, passwords, etc. from your device.
• If your device is lost, stolen, or confiscated, immediately notify MRU’s Information Technology Services (ITS) at 403.440.6000.
• You can find helpful information on ITS’ Working Off-Campus webpage including the Working Safely While Travelling quick reference guide.

Additional Resources

U15 Group of Canadian Research Universities and Universities Canada: Travel security guide for university researchers and staff 

• Appendix A provides a thorough travel security checklist. Travel security checklist for university researchers

• U15 Group of Canadian Research Universities and Universities Canada: Travel security guide for university researchers and staff
• CSIS: Research Security Protecting Canadian Science & Technology
• Public Safety Canada: Research Security Information Update (2021)