When we receive company-provided computers, it’s tempting to treat them as our own, especially in remote or hybrid work setups. However, blurring personal and work boundaries can lead to risks. Jacqueline Pitter, a senior strategic consultant at Vantage Technology Consulting Group with corporate IT experience, emphasizes the importance of maintaining work/life boundaries. IT experts provide valuable insights by sharing the top actions they would never take on a work laptop. Let’s learn from their wisdom.
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Lack Of Care For The Work Laptop
Compared To Their Own
IT experts emphasize the importance of recognizing that a work laptop belongs to the employer. It is crucial to act accordingly, even though it may be in your possession. Proper care and responsibility are expected, including not disabling security features such as the inactivity lock-out or anti-virus protection.
Secure Laptop Practices: Locking When
Unattended
IT experts understand the risks associated with leaving work laptops unattended. To protect sensitive information and prevent unauthorized access, they emphasize the importance of always locking the device when stepping away.
Confidential Conversations: Avoiding Work
Laptop Usage
Remember that conversations on a work laptop are not private. Employers can remotely monitor your activities, including messages on platforms like Slack. Reclaiming the laptop and reviewing its contents is within their legal rights, typically for investigations related to institutional impact. Be cautious and avoid gossip or sensitive discussions on company property, as work computers are closely tracked for cybersecurity purposes.
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Personal Usage Restrictions: No Google
Searches Or Personal Emails
Exercise caution with your online activities, as Safia Kazi from ISACA advised. Avoid typing anything embarrassing in instant-messenger conversations or Google searches on company-provided devices. It applies to all services used on work laptops, including personal email. Remember that employee surveillance tools can track keystrokes, potentially revealing the contents of private emails sent from work devices.