The Hidden Dangers of Working on the Go
In today's fast-paced world, professionals often find themselves working on airplanes, trains, and in public spaces to maximize productivity. However, this convenience comes with significant risks to confidentiality and privacy. Recent personal experiences highlight just how easily sensitive information can be exposed to strangers—sometimes with serious consequences.
Real-Life Encounters with Confidentiality Breaches
On a recent flight, I was startled by how much confidential information was visible on fellow passengers’ laptop screens. Without any intention to snoop, I found myself glancing at executive committee meeting minutes, profit and loss spreadsheets, health insurance details, and even litigation strategies—all in plain sight. The proximity of seats and the lack of privacy meant that anyone with a quick eye could absorb sensitive data, simply by walking down the aisle or sitting nearby. Then the post I did about this on LinkedIn got over 40,000 views.
...it only takes one attentive bystander for confidential information to be compromised.
The problem isn’t limited to airplanes. On trains, in restaurants, and even in office lobbies, confidential conversations and documents are often exposed. One memorable incident involved overhearing lawyers discuss sensitive case details on a train, while another saw a professional editing client agreements in full view of neighboring passengers. In restaurants and elevators, conversations about business deals and legal strategies were easily overheard by those nearby.
Why Does This Happen?
Many professionals may be in their own world, or think that no one is paying attention, or that their work is too obscure to be of interest. But as these real life examples show, it only takes one attentive bystander for confidential information to be compromised. Sometimes, people become complacent, especially after periods of reduced travel, forgetting the basics of privacy protection.
The Consequences of Carelessness
The risks of exposing sensitive information in public are not hypothetical. There are documented cases where overheard conversations or visible documents have led to competitive disadvantages, breaches of client trust, and even job losses. In one striking example, a new hire lost his job before it even started after loudly disparaging his future employer on a flight—unaware that the company owner was sitting nearby.
For regulated professionals - such as attorneys, accountants, bankers, and financial advisors - these lapses can also result in breaches of professional obligations, with potential legal and reputational consequences.
Best Practices for Protecting Confidential Information
To mitigate these risks, professionals and organizations should adopt a proactive approach:
- Use Privacy Screens: These can help obscure laptop displays from side views, though they are not foolproof, especially in cramped spaces like economy class or crowded trains.
- Be Mindful of Conversations: Avoid discussing sensitive matters in public areas where others may overhear. Remember, “these walls have ears,” and you never know who might be listening.
- Train Employees: Firms should include privacy and confidentiality training as part of their onboarding process and reinforce these lessons regularly. Travel policies should explicitly address the handling of confidential information in public spaces.
- Silence Device Sounds: Audible keyboard clicks and notifications can draw unwanted attention. Set devices to silent when working in public.
- Consider Physical Security: In high-security environments, additional measures such as Faraday bags for electronic devices may be appropriate.
A Call for Vigilance
Ultimately, the responsibility for protecting confidential information rests with each professional. While technology and policies can help, awareness and discretion are the most effective safeguards. As one seasoned observer put it, “You’re free to abandon your privacy, but not your client’s.” In an era where privacy is often taken for granted, these reminders are more relevant than ever.
Working on the go has become a necessity for many, but it should never come at the expense of confidentiality. Whether on a plane, train, or in a coffee shop, professionals must remain vigilant, mindful, and respectful of the trust placed in them by clients and employers. After all, you never know who might be watching - or listening.
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Connect with Julie Savarino on LinkedIn.
