Do your work habits put information at risk?

They might unless you:

• USE a password-protected screensaver if the OS doesn't have a built-in locking mechanism.
• BECOME aware of who is around your work area and what they might see.
• REMOVE sensitive data from your computer when no longer needed.
• ALWAYS log out or lock your workstation even if away for only a few minutes.
• REFUSE to save passwords when prompted. It may be tempting to do so, but if someone breaks into your machine, either physically or virtually, they will be able to access anything you need a password for without even knowing your password. Furthermore, the most frequently given reason for forgetting a password is that it was saved, and its owner forgot what it was.

If the data you work with is too valuable to lose (and what data isn't?), arrange to have it backed up. Often this can be done by simply copying the data to an external storage device like a USB drive. But you should find out if your unit has already set up a backup program for important data. You may also need to request that your Technical Support Professional (TSP) arrange for routine daily backups to ensure against permanent loss.