Who doesn’t love a trade show? It’s an opportunity to step out of the day-to-day, head somewhere new, and get a fresh perspective. Trade shows are also a key part of business expansion for jewelry retailers, wholesalers, and numismatists. These events offer opportunities to network, showcase inventory, and grow your business. But due to the nature of these events, including high-value merchandise on display and real-time transactions, there is a growing threat: cybercrime.
Today, jewelers and coin dealers aren’t just vulnerable to physical theft—they’re also targets for phishing scams, data breaches, payment fraud, and identity theft. In fact, Californians reported more than $2 billion in losses in 2023 according to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center.
If you’re heading to a trade show like JCK Las Vegas, ANA World’s Fair of Money, or even a regional jewelry expo, cybersecurity must be part of your pre-show planning. Here’s a practical, easy-to-follow guide to protecting your jewelry or numismatic business before, during, and after a trade show.
Before the Show: Lock Down Your Digital Devices
Before the bags are packed and the boxes taped up, make sure your all your digital assets are up-to-date and secure.
1. Update and Secure Devices
Before traveling, make sure all laptops, phones, and tablets have the latest security updates and operating systems installed. Add antivirus software and enable device encryption. Turn on firewalls and disable unused features like file sharing.
2. Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) across platforms and programs
Enable MFA on email, bank accounts, POS systems, and cloud storage. This one extra layer can prevent unauthorized access, even if a password is compromised.
3. Back Up Business-Critical Data
Backup your client records, inventory, and financial documents to an encrypted cloud storage system or external drive stored securely offsite. If a device is lost or hacked, your data won’t be.
4. Limit the Business Data You Travel With
Bring only essential data. Leave behind full client databases, financial records, and pricing models if they’re not required at the show.
5. Verify Jewelers Insurance Coverage
Not all jewelers insurance policies cover cyber-related losses. Review your coverage to ensure it includes cyber liability, business interruption, and data breach protection, especially if you’re making or accepting payments or handling customer information during shows.
During the Show: Stay Alert and Minimize Risk
You’ve checked into the hotel, reconnected with friends and acquaintances in the lobby, and are ready to start the show. Vigilance during the entire course of the event helps keep your business safe.
1. Avoid Public Wi-Fi
Never conduct sensitive business (e.g., logging into your bank, processing payments) over public Wi-Fi. Use your phone as a secure hotspot or a mobile VPN service to protect data in transit.
2. Turn Off Auto-Connect Features
Disable Bluetooth and Wi-Fi auto-connect to prevent your device from latching onto rogue access points.
3. Beware of Phishing and Impersonation Scams
Cybercriminals often target exhibitors by posing as event organizers, potential clients, or suppliers. Be skeptical of urgent emails requesting wire transfers or password resets—even if they seem familiar. Always verify by phone or in person.
4. Don’t Plug in Promotional USBs or Scan Random QR Codes
USB drives can carry malware. QR codes can redirect you to phishing sites. Avoid these unless you know the source is trustworthy.
5. Physically Secure Devices
Treat your tech like your merchandise—lock it up when not in use. Use strong PINs or biometric locks on all devices.
After the Show: Clean Up and Monitor
Cybercrime prevention doesn’t end when you board the plane back home. The days following the show may reveal threats or breaches you didn’t see coming.
1. Change Passwords
If you accessed sensitive accounts from hotel Wi-Fi or public spaces, change those passwords when you return.
2. Run Full Security Scans
Scan all devices with antivirus and malware protection tools. Look for signs of tampering or strange new applications.
3. Review Account and Access Logs
If you use tools like QuickBooks, Shopify, or cloud inventory platforms, check for any logins from unfamiliar IP addresses or regions.
4. Secure New Data
Store any new customer information or supplier contracts in encrypted formats and avoid keeping files in unsecured folders or inboxes.
5. Report and Document Incidents
If you suspect fraud or a breach, report it to your IT provider, your cyber insurance provider, and any affected parties. Fast reporting can mitigate damage and support future claims.
Physical and Cyber Threats Are Connected
Remember: physical theft of a device can lead to digital exposure. If someone steals your laptop, they may gain access to private files, payment platforms, and email accounts. Make sure remote wipe capabilities are enabled through services like Find My iPhone or Google Device Manager.
Final Thoughts: Build Cybersecurity Into Your Show Strategy
Being cyber-smart doesn’t require a tech degree. It just takes a few extra steps and a proactive mindset.
Invest in cybersecurity and jewelers insurance coverage that fits your trade show activity and remote business model. By doing so, you protect your business, your clients, and your reputation from threats that are increasingly digital, not just physical.
