Protecting yourself and your data at work

There are several things you can do to protect the security of your username and data:

• Familiarise yourself with IT policies, including:
  • Information Technology Service Provision - operational policy
  • Information Technology Use - operational policy
  • Information Technology Use - procedure
  • Information Technology Security - operational policy
  • Information Technology Security - procedure

• Do not divulge your password or share your account with anyone.
• Be very wary of unsolicited email and attachments.
• Don't leave yourself logged in to an unattended computer — lock the screen or log out instead.
• Turn monitor off to avoid displaying sensitive data when unauthorised personnel are in the room.
• Keep your desk clear of removable storage media and sensitive information, including passwords. This will reduce the risk of unauthorised access, theft, loss or damage to your information during and outside working hours.
• Collect sensitive documents from printers as soon as they are printed.
• Shred or otherwise dispose of sensitive information in accordance with your office's or University procedures.

In addition you should:

• Try not to reveal sensitive information when you may be overheard, such as when you are in a public place or when you use phone and video communications.
• Not leave confidential messages on faxes and answering machines as information may be relayed to other people without your authorisation.

Please remember, taking personal responsibility for the security of your computer and the information it contains, as well as your account and the access it provides, is an essential part of your job.