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Information Security Tips Series |
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In the last issue, we went through a few security tips on the purchase, installation and setup of laptops. Now, let's share some practical security advice on the day-to-day use of these devices. You may notice that our advice apply not only to laptop computers but also to other mobile devices, such as mobile phones and even desktop computers. After all, information security depends not only on the technology, but also, to a large extent, relates to an individual's mindset and usage habits. Using Laptop
Computers
As technology advances, notebook computers are becoming more and more commonplace. It is capable of storing and processing a large amount of information without having a fixed physical location, and they can be carried around easily. The most obvious threat would be loss of computers or data leakage. The usage habits and security awareness of the user also play an important role in avoiding such incidents. If your notebook is lost, you will lose those data that has not been backed up. Your personal data or information, such as your name, bank account, photos of family or friends and your own email address lists will also be disclosed to unauthorised persons or even be uploaded to the Internet. Clearly, we should always keep an eye on our notebook and place it at a safe place. If you need to walk away from your notebook for a short while, you should consider securing it with a cable lock and enabling the screen saver password or you may lock the notebook in a drawer, together with its peripheral gadgets such as external hard drives, USB flash drives, security devices (commonly used for e-Banking and VPN) and mobile broadband sticks. Set a boot password for your notebook. Most notebooks have the ability to set a password so that an unauthorised person cannot start or use the computer. In addition, avoid using simple or even blank login passwords. Disabling mandatory login would make it easier for unauthorised persons to use the computer. In case you need to login at some public locations, remain vigilant and make sure there is no peeking eyes around who are curious to know your password. Never stick your password on some "conspicuous" places. Ideally, one should change one's password periodically. Passwords should be changed promptly if you suspect they have been compromised or disclosed. Do not store personal and sensitive information in the notebook and in case you have to do so, consider the risk of confidentiality and accidental data leakage. Where appropriate, you may apply an "open/edit" password to protect those files or simply save the files to an encrypted storage, such as an encrypted file system, encrypted portable hard drive and encrypted USB flash drives. In addition, we should schedule regular backups on the valuable data in order to minimise accidental data loss. Computer software
In relation to software, Internet has become so ubiquitous with free applications and websites thriving every corner, we should be more prudent when installing these freeware or signing up to a free Internet account. Never disclose too much unnecessary personal information, in particular credit card details and bank account details. Freeware with known security issues (e.g. Foxy), pirated software, applications or plug-ins with unrealistic functionality or offered by some untrustworthy sources are inherently dangerous and we should avoid using them as much as possible. Lastly, please screen the hard disk scanning histories, virus definition dates, OS update records and automatic data backup results on a regular basis. These routine steps can reduce the possibility of information leakage. In the next issue, we will focus on the secure disposal of a notebook computer and skim through the unique security features offered by the latest tablet devices. |
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