When traveling with Lambton College assets, specifically computers and the information contained on them, users must take extra precautions to ensure the integrity of their systems and data is maintained.Adhering to the following guidelines will help keep devices secure and ensure that only authorized individuals have access to any sensitive or confidential information.
Before leaving:
- Check to ensure your antivirus software is up to date and automatic scans are scheduled and performed properly.
- Ensure your data is stored on your network drives. If the worst happens and a device is lost or stolen, your data is safely stored somewhere else. Avoid making backups to external hard drives or media you intend to take with you.
- Bring only the minimum number of devices required for your trip. Taking more technology with you increases the risk of compromise.
- Secure all devices with a password, passcode, or biometric lock. Ensure devices lock automatically when unattended and that a password or passcode is required to continue use. Avoid storing passwords or security information with or on their respective devices.
- Remove any sensitive or personal information from devices. Consider, performing a backup and factory reset of your phone and restore your data when you return. For laptops and other devices, remove any documents containing personally identifiable, confidential, or institutional information.
- Familiarize yourself with the VPN client on your computer. This not only provides access to on-campus resources, but also encrypts the traffic travelling over the internet to prevent it from being read when using public or unsecured Wi-Fi. If you’re not sure whether it has been configured for you or how to use it, visit the IT Department before you leave.
- Review the Use of Information Technology Resources document.
When you return:
- Perform a full scan of your devices to ensure they haven’t become infected with malware or any other potential security threats. Visit the IT Department if you require any assistance.
- If you checked your voicemail while you were away, consider changing the password. Also consider changing any passwords to any personal accounts you may have accessed over public or unsecured Wi-Fi.
- Save any documents you created over the course of your travels to an external location and restore the backups you made prior to departure.
- Check for and complete any updates that may have become available while you were away.
- If you suspect that your device, data, or any other confidential or sensitive information has been compromised in any way, report it to the IT Service Desk immediately.