Christmas time is here!  With holiday shopping, gatherings, and travel, we wanted to spend some time this month reminding everyone of the importance of physical security in keeping Crowder secure.  Below are a few tips to make sure the Grinch does not turn your holiday season upside down. 

• Lock your computer screen – always press Windows + L to lock your screen before leaving your office or classroom to prevent someone else from having access to your documents or permissions. 

• Lock your door & drawers – make sure any area containing sensitive information is locked before you leave or that someone that’s allowed access to the information will be there to monitor it while you are gone. 

• Clear your desk of sensitive documents – turn over tests to be grading, transcripts to review, and other sensitive documents so private information is not exposed to holiday well-wishers and carolers.  Place them in a locked drawer before leaving. 

• Be mindful of shoulder surfers – be aware of people standing behind you while login to your computer, email, or other sensitive sites. 

• Prevent tailgating & piggyback rides – after entering or leaving a locked area, make sure that the door is fully closed and locked again so that others are not able to slide in later.  Similarly, be wary of someone trying to gain access to a restricted area, including offices where personal information may be stored in unlocked filing cabinets, through social engineering techniques.