A few too many drinks at the office Christmas party could cost
you more than your dignity!
In a digital age many of us won’t leave our work behind when
we head for the bar for a festive tipple. Smart phones, iPads and laptops are
likely to contain our work contacts at the very least and, in some cases, may
store even more confidential information.
Making a fool of yourself on the dance floor will be the
least of your worries if your phone or laptop is lost or stolen. Data falling
into wrong hands could cost you your job; your employer their reputation or
even, in the worst case scenario, their business.
Here are my 10 seasonal security tips:
1. Phones,
laptops and tablets all come with the facility to set a password – so use it.
2. Twitter
and alcohol don’t mix. Your Tweets may seem witty after a few glasses, but you
may embarrass or even offend.
3. You
may be keen to share photos of your festive fun on Facebook but colleagues who over
indulged won’t thank you.
4. Lock
your laptop in the office rather than take it out with you.
5. Empty
pockets and handbags of USB sticks and take them off your keyring. Lock them safely in a drawer.
6. If
you’re an employer consider the timing of your office party. Will staff work
productively, and securely, with a hangover?
7. Is
your office party being held in the office?
If so, remind your employees about the need to clear desks, lock down
computers and screens.
8. As
an employer, introduce a clear desk concept and stick to it all year
round. That way no one leaves
confidential information or data lying around ….ever.
9. Don’t
be tempted to access company data on the free wifi available at your Christmas
party venue.
10. Finally,
if you’re a boss don’t leave IT and social media security until the festive
season. Build cyber security and
awareness into your culture and have policies in place, including guidance on
social media use.
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