Information Security

Physical security

Theft, data loss, and physical damage are all threats if someone can access your computer without your knowledge. To reduce this risk:

• Control access to the computer itself. Only authorized people should have access. If someone can get physical access to your computer they can get full control of it.
• Ensure your computer is in a room that can be locked when unattended.
• Secure the computer to non-movable furniture (such as desks).
• Lock your computer so that the case cannot be opened (protects internal components).
• Position your computer so that people cannot watch you type in your passwords. If machines are in front of windows or behind glass walls, avoid having the monitor or keyboard in a location where they can be seen from the outside.

Physical security is as much about preventing computers or their components from being stolen as it is about preventing access to the operating system or data.