Information Protection and Security

Confidential information (NPPI) should never be stored on mobile equipment.  This includes credit card numbers, passwords, bank numbers (etc.), and the personal information of other people. The information, itself, is usually more valuable than the equipment it’s stored on. Loss, theft, or negligence in the care of private information could lead to legal problems if the information is breached or compromised, especially if you’re handling the information for the university or a corporate entity.  If it’s necessary to transport NPPI on portable equipment, make sure it’s encrypted, and protect it like your wallet.  Stop. Think. Secure IT!

Because they're mobile, they're easy to lose or have stolen.  It may be that your information on the equipment is even more valuable than the equipment itself (not a smart idea on mobile equipment).  Lock mobile equipment with complex passwords and encryption if possible.  Smart phones, and netbooks need maintenance and security, just as your laptop and desktop computers.  Though they have less powerful processors they are still vulnerable to viruses and worms from visiting websites infected with malware, downloading infected applications, and insecure wireless networks.  Thumb drives are a problem because they’re easier to lose, or have stolen. When you copy infected information into the drive it's easily spread to other machines. Protect your mobile information with encryption, and complex passwords, work on a secure network, and beware of  cyber cafes. Stop. Think. Secure IT!