Security Tips

In your everyday work, there are many things you can do to help protect and secure DHS confidential information. Here are a few tips.

• Secure confidential papers in your cubicle, if possible in a locked file when you leave for the day.

• Do not leave confidential papers unattended in the fax, printer or copy machines.

• Change your password frequently and use a “strong” password that is difficult to decipher. A password that’s not found in the dictionary and has a combination of numbers and letters is much harder to crack.

• Guard your password carefully. Do not share it with anyone else or post it in a visible area that others can easily see.

• Since data will be backed-up on a regular basis, make sure your data files are stored on the network server and not on your hard drive.

• Take precautions when sending sensitive or proprietary information via email. Password protect documents if needed.

• Always lock your computer when you are away from it. To lock most computers, users need to hit ctrl-alt-del simultaneously, then hit enter.

• Log off and shut down your computer prior to leaving for the day.

• Make sure all computers are cleansed (of software, etc.) before the computer is allocated to another employee. Contact OIS to delete files and information.

• Never post confidential or personal information on web pages and contact the DHS Office of Public Affairs if you need further guidance or assistance.