Ten Steps to Protect Laptops
The following ten steps can help protect your laptops from falling into the wrong hands:
1. Use visual deterrents such as cable locks wrapped around a desk to discourage someone from taking the machine. You can even use these in hotel rooms and conference rooms.
2. Avoid leaving unsecured portable devices unattended. This rule applies to home as well as office.
3. Use simple inconspicuous carrying cases. Some cases scream “Laptop inside!”
4. Use complex alphanumeric passwords. Complex passwords usually use at least 3 of 4 tactics: Uppercase alpha, Lowercase alpha, Numbers, and Special characers.
5. Use anti-virus, anti-spyware, firewalls and encryption programs on all portable computers. Make sure any file that contains sensitive data is also encrypted. It makes no sense to have the software if it’s not used.
6. Back up all valuable data, especially before you take the machine out of the office. Sometimes it is expedient to make two copies and place them in separate buildings.
7. Understand the dangers of introducing pirated software or downloading files to your device. These items often carry malicious code and could be used to enlist your machine in a robot network.
8. Pay attention to news reports of changing theft schemes. By knowing how your enemy works, you can better protect yourself. This includes understanding phishing and SPAM attempts.
9. Use asset tracking and recovery software, which in some cases can locate your PC in a manner similar to having LoJack on an automobile.
10. Use advanced data protection tools, such as requiring a login to the company network before you can decrypt sensitive files. This way stolen computers would be denied the access needed to view important files.
By following these steps you will reduce your chances of becoming a headline.
1. Use visual deterrents such as cable locks wrapped around a desk to discourage someone from taking the machine. You can even use these in hotel rooms and conference rooms.
2. Avoid leaving unsecured portable devices unattended. This rule applies to home as well as office.
3. Use simple inconspicuous carrying cases. Some cases scream “Laptop inside!”
4. Use complex alphanumeric passwords. Complex passwords usually use at least 3 of 4 tactics: Uppercase alpha, Lowercase alpha, Numbers, and Special characers.
5. Use anti-virus, anti-spyware, firewalls and encryption programs on all portable computers. Make sure any file that contains sensitive data is also encrypted. It makes no sense to have the software if it’s not used.
6. Back up all valuable data, especially before you take the machine out of the office. Sometimes it is expedient to make two copies and place them in separate buildings.
7. Understand the dangers of introducing pirated software or downloading files to your device. These items often carry malicious code and could be used to enlist your machine in a robot network.
8. Pay attention to news reports of changing theft schemes. By knowing how your enemy works, you can better protect yourself. This includes understanding phishing and SPAM attempts.
9. Use asset tracking and recovery software, which in some cases can locate your PC in a manner similar to having LoJack on an automobile.
10. Use advanced data protection tools, such as requiring a login to the company network before you can decrypt sensitive files. This way stolen computers would be denied the access needed to view important files.
By following these steps you will reduce your chances of becoming a headline.
posted by skgroner | 9:19 AM
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