Five Ways to Keep Your Work Records Protected

Unfortunately, many professionals with access to important records at work do not keep that data protected. If you’re one of them, these simple steps are a great way to start protecting your information.

Categorize Your Records

First, you must know which records to protect. Many companies have an established system of three categories to classify all files. The first and least private category is external files. This information is available to everyone, including people outside your company. The next category is internal files. These files are available to all employees at your company, but not available to the public. The third and most private category is confidential files. These types of files are usually only shared between a limited and designated group of people, and must have the highest levels of protection.

Password Protect Confidential Files

First, make sure that any files that are stored electronically are password protected. Furthermore, your password should not be something that could be easily guessed. Don’t use “password” or the names of your children or pets. Commit this password to memory – many data breeches occur when an individual writes a password down on a sticky note.

Lock Up Your Hard Copies

If you must keep paper copies of your confidential data, make sure they are locked up. If you have an office, make sure you lock the door every time you leave – even if you’ll just be gone a few minutes. If this is not a possibility, or if you do not have an office, keep your confidential papers stored in a locked drawer or even in a secure storage unit. You can find Self Storage in Fishers, IN and just about anywhere in the world.

Destroy Any Files That Are No Longer in Use

When discarding confidential files, take extreme caution. If you are deleting an electronic file, make sure you fully delete the document instead of sending it to the Recycle Bin. If you are disposing of a paper copy, be sure to shred the document completely and do not leave the shredded paper in an area that is accessible to the public.

Practice Caution

If you have access to confidential records while at work, be aware that you might become a target for online attacks. Make sure your computer has adequate anti-virus software. Don’t click on suspicious links sent through email, and make sure you utilize the privacy settings on your social media sites.

Protecting your confidential work records can seem like a daunting task. However, by following these simple steps, you can keep your data protected and private.