Secure your desk!

Let's talk about the concept of a clean desk, which refers not to neatness, but to data and information security.

A clean desk ensures that when you're not at your desk or in your office, sensitive data is properly locked and secured against unauthorised access. It ensures that no inadvertent disclosure of sensitive information occurs.

If you leave your computer unattended, make sure it is locked so that a password is required to log in. Using the screen saver option in control panel - display provides a password lock option for when the computer is idle after a set period of time. If in doubt ask IT for help.

A clean desk prevents those who have physical access to your area from getting any items or information to which they are not entitled. This could be a co-worker, visitor or contractor during normal business hours or the cleaners after hours.

Another benefit of a clean desk is that items won't be susceptible to accidental damage. Besides the desk itself, make sure that you erase white-boards after meetings if any type of sensitive data is on them. Also think twice about the paper you place in your rubbish bin, should it go into secure bins instead?

A clean desk policy is not meant to make you paranoid about keeping your workspace under lock and key. It's simply meant to make you aware of how easy it is for information to be leaked, and a clean desk helps prevent this.

All files and records with which you are working should ideally be returned to your records storage area each day or at a minimum, securely locked up in drawers or cupboards.

Part of any good clean desk strategy includes making sure that your computer monitor is not easily viewable to outsiders. Thus, it's a good idea to position your computer monitor in such a way that people from outside can't see the display.

Things to remember about your clean desk include:

Treat sensitive material like any other type of valuable. Lock and secure it.

Secure hard copies and files/folders, as well as your laptop and other devices, in your workspace or office.

Make sure your monitor is not easily viewed by people walking by your desk. It may display a treasure trove of confidential information.