You know you want a bigger, better job in IT. You know you’re the Developer or Front End Designer the hottest firms are crying out for.
And you know s1jobs is the only place to find your perfect job!
But we can do more than that: we can ensure when you do land a leading role, you have the ability to stay centre stage. Because today it’s all about top tips to make sure your laptop data – and the sensitive business of your new employer – stay safe.
Stolen information is big business. Just last week saw a new scandal brewing, with the Information commissioner launching an investigation into alleged selling on of pension data.
And, while there’s been a surge in recent months of creative new ways to protect virtual items and ethereal information, you need to know how to survive if the physical hardware goes walkies – with the dreaded prospect that all of your Q-style password protection isn’t any smarter than the hacker who half-inched your laptop.
Here are some simple steps to protect your machine, or at least ensure your data and your own backside are covered in the event of a laptop “spontaneously” going missing (i.e. being left in the back of the taxi after a Friday night one for the road).
Keep out of sight
First up, there’s no substitute for physical security. Diligence with important devices will go a long way, so keep an eye on any devices that fit the bill. Store them in locked drawers in the office or home, keep them out of sight, or use security tags that track laptops and signal when something’s amiss. Also, never, ever advertise your fancy hardware on your commute or in a restaurant: it’s not big and it’s not clever.
Invest in cool codes
Amazingly, some companies and organisations are lagging behind in laptop encryption. Be proactive – your new boss will thank you! – and persuade your IT colleagues to put down their game consoles and find out what tools are available to encrypt every piece of data. There are a number of systems, with numerous add-ons that can be catered to your individual and business needs, so shop about and make the right choice for your new firm. Encryption isn’t just for Dan Brown novels: it’s a must for anyone taking data protection seriously.
Strategic data segmentation
Strategic data segmentation is essential. If all your data is linked to a cloud, your laptop, your phone and so on, then it’s a much bigger and easier target. Limit the spaces the data exists on, and encrypt all of your devices that could go astray; that includes that back-up USB stick you keep in your wallet and didn’t even think about.
Want not, waste not
Finally, take care with disposal. When your laptop’s best days are done, wipe everything from it. Not only that, smash the thing to pieces afterwards. No, we’re only kidding! When you are certain that no retrievable data remains and you have the right permissions from your company, donate your hardware to legitimate and reputable recycling charities, who will make sure your laptop is put to good use in places such as rural schools in developing countries.
Find your dream IT job on s1jobs.com.
This new employee took laptop protection to new levels . . . thankfully, there are easier ways!