Holafly report: Business travelers left vulnerable by workplace policies

Holafly has released a report arguing that business travelers face unnecessary security risks when managing their own internet access abroad. The company suggests that workplace policies often fall short, and employers should provide eSIMs to ensure secure connectivity for traveling employees.

Reported risks for business travelers

According to TechRadar, 53% of business travelers manage their own internet access while traveling abroad, often relying on public networks in airports, hotels, or cafes. Holafly’s report highlights that these networks can expose travelers to significant security risks, as workplace policies frequently fail to provide secure alternatives.

Holafly argues that current workplace policies focus on issuing warnings—such as "avoid public networks" or "use a VPN"—but do not address how employees should actually connect securely in the first place. The company points out that VPNs alone are insufficient, as they do not control how employees initially access the internet.

Security is reportedly a top concern for 42% of business travelers, yet many still connect to unsecured networks due to a lack of alternatives. TechRadar notes that this gap leaves companies vulnerable to data breaches or unauthorized access during travel.

Holafly’s proposed solution

Holafly suggests that employers should provide eSIMs to ensure secure connectivity for business travelers from the moment they arrive at their destination. The company argues that this approach shifts responsibility away from individual employees and reduces reliance on potentially risky networks.

The company offers a Business Center, a platform for managing and distributing eSIMs to teams. According to TechRadar, admins can generate QR codes or details for employees to install the eSIM on their devices, simplifying the process of securing connections.

Holafly claims that providing eSIMs could be seen as a supportive measure rather than an IT restriction, as it eliminates the need for travelers to seek out and evaluate local internet options.

What this means

Lazyfounder analysis — our interpretation, not reported fact.

For founders and operators, this report underscores a growing gap in corporate travel policies. While cybersecurity is a well-documented concern, the emphasis on secure connectivity before employees even log on is often overlooked. Providing eSIMs isn’t just about security—it’s a practical way to reduce friction for employees while shifting the burden of compliance away from individual travelers. Companies that proactively address this may see fewer breaches and less resistance from teams, especially as remote work and global travel become more common. However, the real test will be whether employees adopt eSIMs without viewing them as just another IT-imposed restriction.

Key takeaways

• 53% of business travelers manage their own internet access abroad, increasing security risks.
• Current workplace policies often focus on what not to do rather than providing secure alternatives.
• Public networks like those in airports and hotels remain a major vulnerability for traveling employees.
• eSIMs are positioned as a solution to ensure secure connectivity from the moment travelers arrive.
• Holafly’s Business Center allows companies to distribute and manage eSIMs for teams.

FAQ

Why are public networks risky for business travelers?

Public networks, such as those in airports or hotels, are often unsecured and can expose users to cyber threats like data breaches, unauthorized access, or malware. Business travelers handling sensitive information are particularly vulnerable.

How do eSIMs improve security for business travelers?

eSIMs allow employers to provide pre-configured, secure internet connections for employees. This reduces reliance on public networks and ensures connectivity is controlled by the company rather than the individual.

Are VPNs alone sufficient for secure travel?

Holafly’s report suggests VPNs are not enough, as they do not address how employees initially connect to the internet. Without a secure starting point, VPNs may not fully protect against risks.

What is Holafly’s Business Center?

Holafly’s Business Center is a platform designed for companies to manage and distribute eSIMs to employees. Admins can generate QR codes or installation details for employees to activate secure connections on their devices.

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