Laptop Security Advice
Computers have a high initial value & are popular targets for thieves.
Their 2nd hand value is still high and there is a great demand in this market. Insurance companies do not cover the cost of lost time, stress and valuable information lost through the theft of laptops.
Simple documented security policies (backed up with staff training and education) can provide a valuable contribution to the security of your organisation.
These following key points will help you in building these policies:
Do not leave laptops or expensive equipment lying around or visible through a window or where it can be seen by an outsider.
Do not leave packaging for expensive equipment in the organisation’s bins. This is wonderful advertising for thieves. Discard packaging offsite.
Improve your building’s security at its weakest points.
Always question the presence of strangers. Most schools and organisations should have visitor passes. Thieves are usually already familiar with their destination.
Do not give unnecessary information to anyone outside the organisation in regards to equipment onsite.
Keep keys all together on a rack and locked away in an inconspicuous cabinet.
Gilkon do not use combination locks as we are of the view that these can easily expose the user to a security breach without the users knowledge. Combination locks are very convenient, however when the cabinet has been opened the combination lock is usually left in its open position with the combination exposed. The combination can therefore be seen by numerous people, authorized or unauthorized. Even when the combination is not left exposed, the user may not know if a breach has occurred until it is too late.
If the product you’re using for security sends the right message to you, it will also send it to thieves. Send out your strongest visual message.
The ultimate success for any security policies will depend on the individuals implementing them. Security measures must be practical in day to day operations and understood clearly by teachers and staff.
