6 Corporate Travel Security Risks And How To Avoid Them

Corporate travel can provide valuable opportunities for growth, networking, and new business ventures. However, along with the benefits come various corporate travel security risks that can jeopardize the safety of employees and the security of sensitive information. 

As businesses expand their global footprint, understanding these risks and how to avoid them becomes key. Personal Protection Solutions specializes in helping companies safeguard their employees during travel with a range of security services tailored to meet each client’s needs.

We will cover some of the most common corporate travel security risks and provide effective strategies for avoiding them. Whether your team is traveling to a nearby city or across the globe, protecting their safety and your business assets should be a top priority.

Physical Safety and Theft Risks

Physical safety risks are among the most apparent dangers employees face during corporate travel. These risks can include everything from muggings and pickpocketing to physical assaults. 

High-crime areas, particularly in unfamiliar cities, pose an ongoing threat to travelers. Even seemingly safe destinations can carry hidden dangers, such as personal confrontations or accidents.

How to avoid physical safety risks:

• Research and Plan Ahead: Prior to travel, ensure that employees are familiar with the safety landscape of their destination. This includes understanding the local crime rates, potential risks, and areas to avoid.
• Use Professional Security Services: Our executive protection services provide security escorts to safeguard your employees during high-risk travel. Our trained personnel know how to mitigate risks and guarantee that your team is secure.
• Secure Accommodations: Choose hotels or accommodations that have strong security measures. Look for properties with 24/7 security, surveillance cameras, and controlled access points.
• Travel in Groups: Encourage employees to travel in groups, especially when in unfamiliar or high-risk areas. There is safety in numbers, and group travel can reduce the likelihood of incidents.
• Safety Training: Offering personal safety training to your employees can help them recognize dangerous situations and respond appropriately.

Cybersecurity Threats

As employees increasingly rely on technology during travel, cybersecurity threats become a growing concern. These threats include hacking, phishing, data breaches, and the theft of sensitive business information. Public Wi-Fi networks and unsecured devices are prime targets for cybercriminals looking to exploit vulnerabilities.

How to avoid cybersecurity risks:

• Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN): Encourage employees to use a VPN whenever accessing the internet in public spaces. This will create a secure connection and protect sensitive data from hackers.
• Limit Sensitive Information on Mobile Devices: Advise employees to limit the amount of confidential or sensitive information stored on their mobile devices. Encryption software can protect this data.
• Monitor Device Usage: Keep track of the devices employees are using for work. Ensure that all devices have up-to-date antivirus software and strong passwords to prevent unauthorized access.
• Security Awareness: Train employees to identify phishing attempts and avoid suspicious websites and emails. Cybercriminals often target employees with fake emails that look legitimate.
• Use Secure Communication Channels: For any business-related communication, employees should use encrypted email services or secure messaging platforms.

Health and Medical Risks

In foreign countries, health and medical risks can pose serious threats to corporate travelers. Different countries have different health standards and regulations. Travelers may be exposed to diseases that are not common in their home countries. Limited access to high-quality healthcare in certain regions further increases these risks.

How to avoid health and medical risks:

• Pre-Travel Health Checkups: Make sure that employees get the necessary vaccinations and health screenings before traveling to specific regions. This can prevent a range of potential health issues.
• Travel Health Insurance: Always arrange for comprehensive health insurance that covers emergencies, including evacuation and hospitalization. This coverage should be valid in the region where employees are traveling.
• Access to Local Healthcare: Research the healthcare facilities in the destination country before travel. Knowing where to find medical assistance in case of an emergency is key.
• Stay Updated on Health Alerts: Keep track of any health advisories or outbreaks in the regions your employees are visiting. The World Health Organization and other agencies often issue travel advisories that can help prevent health risks.

Travel Disruptions and Delays

Business travel often comes with unexpected disruptions. These can include delayed flights, transportation strikes, or weather-related delays that can throw off an employee’s schedule. Such disruptions can result in missed meetings, lost opportunities, or unsafe travel situations.

How to avoid travel disruptions:

• Book Flexible Travel Options: Choose travel arrangements that offer flexibility in case changes need to be made at the last minute. This might include booking flights with easy rescheduling options and securing accommodations with refundable policies.
• Use a Corporate Travel Agent: A travel agent experienced with corporate travel can help manage logistics and bring backup plans in the event of disruptions.
• 24/7 Support Services: Partner with a service provider that delivers around-the-clock support. Personal Protection Solutions brings 24/7 availability for last-minute travel adjustments and security assistance.
• Travel with Backup Documentation: Employees should always carry multiple copies of important documents, such as their passport, ID, travel insurance, and flight details. This can help resolve issues quickly in case of delays or lost documents.

Political and Social Unrest

Traveling to regions experiencing political or social unrest can expose employees to significant risks. These situations can include protests, violent demonstrations, and government instability. This can lead to travel restrictions, violence, and increased danger for foreigners.

How to avoid risks from political unrest:

• Stay Informed: Before sending employees to potentially unstable areas, check for any travel advisories or warnings from government agencies. These alerts can inform you about areas to avoid and potential risks.
• Monitor Local News: Stay up to date with local news and events in the destination country. This will help you stay ahead of any sudden political unrest or situations that could affect your employees.
• Implement Emergency Plans: Develop a crisis management plan to guide employees if political unrest occurs during their trip. This plan should include evacuation procedures, safe locations, and emergency contacts.
• Choose Safer Destinations: When possible, avoid sending employees to destinations with ongoing political instability. Consider alternate locations where business can be conducted safely.

Cultural Misunderstandings and Legal Issues

Misunderstandings stemming from cultural differences or unfamiliarity with local laws can lead to legal trouble for corporate travelers. These can include inadvertent offenses, misunderstandings of local customs, or violations of regulations.

How to avoid cultural and legal issues:

• Cultural Awareness Training: Equip employees with knowledge about local customs, norms, and laws before traveling. This will help them avoid inadvertently offending locals or breaking local laws.
• Work with Legal Experts: In regions where there are complex legal regulations, work with legal professionals to understand any specific requirements for doing business or traveling.
• Stay Informed on Local Laws: Make sure that employees are aware of local laws regarding business practices, such as permits, taxes, and registration requirements. This can help avoid costly fines or legal problems.

Corporate travel comes with its share of corporate travel security risks. However, by staying informed and implementing proactive security measures, businesses can mitigate these risks and protect their employees while traveling. 

At Personal Protection Solutions, we deliver tailored security services to help keep your employees safe during business trips. From executive protection and surveillance to emergency response and travel security consultations, we are committed to providing the protection your team needs.

If you are planning a business travel and need assistance with security planning or any other related services, contact us today. Let us help you safeguard your team and make sure that your corporate trips are successful and secure.