According to the FBI, a laptop is stolen 53 seconds in the United States. With that statistic in mind, Kensington Computer Products Group recommends five essential tips for keeping laptops safe and district and student data secure in the business environment.
- Set Guidelines: Update security policies to set expectations for use in and out of the office. Equipment should be locked at all times in areas open to the public and at home, even when in use. Laptops should also be locked while traveling whenever possible.
- Provide Information: Communicate the threats and consequences of laptop theft. For example, 58 percent of laptops are stolen from the office and 85 percent of managers suspect internal theft. Make sure to discuss the combined repercussions of loss of sensitive district or student data, IP, data breaches, company reputation, employee downtime, and replacement costs.
- Demonstrate Proper Lock Usage: Understanding and being comfortable with a lock will increase user compliance. Choosing an easy to use and quick locking system is critical. Kensington's ClickSafe locks will securely lock a laptop with one click.
- Have a Backup Plan: Physically securing a device is just the first line of defense against data theft. Creating a comprehensive security plan is the most effective way to protect your business. For example, recommend never leaving a laptop logged onto networks, email, or websites and always shutting down or activating a password protected screen saver.
- Reward Compliance: Canvas workspaces for proper use, rewarding secure workstations and confiscating unlocked computers.
