Do you know what you would lose if your laptop was stolen? Laptops are very valuable organizational assets because they contain many work files that are important to the corporate and may contain sensitive business information, which must be protected at all times.

When a laptop is lost or stolen, it is not just the computer that is stolen or lost; it is all of the information stored on it. Laptop security is important to the corporate that its information in the laptop is not seen and/or used by unauthorized people.

A laptop is a great work tool because it is so portable. You can access information stored on the laptop any time you want and if you have authorization, you can connect it to the corporate computer network remotely.

The downside with laptops is that they can store massive amounts of business information that normally would not leave the confines of the office and computer networks. Therefore, laptop security guidelines are very essential to be applied within the corporate.

Laptop Contents

You should ensure that you only have files and other information on your laptop that you absolutely need to do your job whilst you are not connected to the corporate computer network. Get into the habit of transferring your files to a network folder whenever you are connected.

Highly Sensitive Business Information

Please ensure that you do not load information that is highly sensitive or sensitive (classified) onto your laptop, unless you have authorization to do so.

Laptop Backups

If you are not in the habit of routinely backing up your files on your laptop, you run the risk of losing your files and other valuable information if your computer crashes or is stolen.

The best way to backup your files is to transfer them to a network folder whenever you are connected to the corporate computer network.

Cafes and Hotels

Keeping your laptop in sight at all times is especially important when you are in a cafe, restaurant or hotel etc. These are popular places for opportunists to steal mobile phones, wallets, handbags and of course laptops. It only takes a moment to be distracted while someone moves into steal from you.

The best way to counter this type of theft is to have your laptop on the floor against your leg so you can feel its weight, and if you have a long carry strap, put your foot on or through the carry strap. This way you will know if someone tries to take it.

Conferences and Seminars

It is particularly important for you to protect your laptop if you take it to a conference or seminar. You cannot rely upon the security of the conference site, nor expect the support staff, to protect the laptop for you. It is not usually a good idea to take your laptop to these types of events, unless of course you don't mind carrying it with you at all times, even during breaks.

Travel

Whenever you travel, whether by walking, by car or using some form of public transport, your laptop can be vulnerable to theft or loss. It can be quite simple when you have other things on your mind, to accidentally leave your laptop behind when you get off a bus or jump out of a taxi. It is important for you to stay focused, alert and to keep your laptop close to you at all times. Again, wrap the carry strap around your person to prevent theft.

Laptops in Parked Cars

Remember; do not leave your laptop in a car in plain sight, unattended at any time. If you absolutely must leave your laptop in the car for any reason, put it into the boot of your car discretely. Don't forget to remove it, especially if using a hire car. Don't leave your laptop in the boot of your car for long periods on very hot days.

Numerous laptops have been stolen from parked cars because they are attractive items for a quick cash sale. So please think before you act.

Disguise

There have been instances where people have been mugged specifically for their laptops. If you are walking through high-risk areas, you should consider disguising the fact you are carrying a laptop by placing it in a backpack or sports bag.

Using Laptops In Public Places

When you use a laptop in a public place, it is usually not just you that can see the screen; this is particularly true when you use your laptop on public transport. Think about how many times you have sat next to someone who is using their laptop and what you have been able to read on the screen. Remember, if you use your laptop in public; be careful about who can see your screen while you are working. Be discreet.