How to Keep Your Business Secure While Employees Vacation
- Chris Coulson
- Jul 2
- 2 min read
With July Fourth just two days away, your team is probably packing up for long weekends, beach getaways and well-earned PTO. While time off is essential, vacation season can also open the door to unexpected security risks for your business.
Reduced staff, slower response times and employees working remotely (or not at all) can create the perfect opportunity for cybercriminals to strike.
Here’s how to keep your systems safe—so your team can relax and your business can stay protected.
1. Activate Vacation Mode: The IT Checklist
Before anyone leaves the office:
Set up Out-of-Office Responses with clear alternative contacts.
Reassign responsibilities to ensure critical systems and emails aren’t neglected.
Pause or restrict access to any tools or platforms that won’t be needed during PTO.
2. Enforce Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA)
Whether employees are checking emails poolside or on hotel Wi-Fi, make sure MFA is in place. It’s one of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent unauthorized access.
3. Secure Remote Access
If staff are working from the road:
Require VPNs for any remote connections.
Remind them never to use public Wi-Fi without protection.
Ensure company files are stored in cloud platforms with controlled permissions.
4. Refresh Cyber Hygiene Before PTO
A quick security refresher goes a long way. Remind employees:
Not to click suspicious links.
To update their passwords.
To lock screens and devices when unattended.
5. Monitor Logins & Activity
Your IT team (or provider) should monitor for:
Unusual login times or locations.
Multiple failed password attempts.
Access to sensitive data from unrecognized devices.
Bonus: Set up automated alerts for suspicious activity.
6. Schedule Software Updates & Patching
Vacations are the perfect time to push software and security patches when fewer people are online. Just make sure updates are tested and monitored to avoid downtime.
Don’t Let Your Guard Down This Summer
Cybersecurity isn’t seasonal. Whether it’s July Fourth or just another Friday off, having systems in place ensures your business doesn’t miss a beat—even when your team’s out enjoying the fireworks.
Need help getting your systems “vacation-ready”?
Schedule a free no-obligation consultation:
