Frequently Asked Questions

PC Security

What general security measures for computers are effective?

Security can take many forms: physical; data; device. Physical security involves securing the actual physical location of your computer equipment. The methods used include keys, alarms, one-card entry systems, and a variety of other approaches. Data security involves securing of the actual data that resides on your computer. The methods used include various types of file permissions and passwords. Device security combines the above two forms of security to add additional protection to your physical computer and to your data.

Physical Security:
The most effective protection is still the old door/lock/key combination. Maintain a secure work area by locking your office when you are not present. If your workstation is in an open area, be sure to power down your PC before leaving. Do not give your office key(s) to an unauthorized individual(s). Keeping the door to your office locked when you are away is a good starting-point for security, provided the PC is located in your office. Don't walk away from your terminal or PC if you are logged on to the network or accessing mission critical data. Come to a good stopping point; finish and save your work, and log off. Protecting equipment at all times by keeping food, drink and electrical appliances away from your equipment.

Note and report unescorted visitors in your work area, especially when you are processing confidential or mission critical data. Again, if in doubt, ask.

During non-working hours, and when offices are left unattended, lock doors to offices and rooms that house information systems equipment. Limit access to your own equipment. Recognize those who are authorized to use, service and repair your system.

Data Security:
Practice using proper passwords to protect your data, most word processing and database programs have procedures for password protecting files and documents. Know the importance and proper handling for your information and protect it accordingly. If in doubt, ask the owner or manager for clarification. Make and keep backup copies of critical files and data. Scan all files for viruses or worms before using them on any personal computer. Viruses tend to jump from disk to computer to disk… Protect data files. Establish and periodically review access privileges for each sensitive file.

Protect data storage media. Lock up removable media and equipment that contains fixed media.

Device Security:
Place a BIOS password on your personal computer along with a screen saver password on your PC's screen.

What kind of software is authorized by UTPA to be used on employee's PCs?
You must always honor software copyright restrictions. Unauthorized copies of copyrighted software may be made for office or personal use. Copyrighted software may not be borrowed or removed from the workplace. To make copies of protected software is generally illegal.

You should NOT load copyrighted software onto other systems unless authorized in vendor agreements and approved by your supervisor.