Physical Security
Physical protection
Tracking and recovering a stolen laptop is different than, and insufficient for, protecting the data on that laptop from unauthorized disclosure. If your primary goal is to prevent the unauthorized disclosure of sensitive data, then it must be encrypted whether you use a tracking and recovery solution or not. However, physical protection should not be ignored.
Best Practices
Follow these best practices for physically securing your mobile device:
- Do not leave your laptop unattended. Lock your office or lab when you leave.
- Use a laptop lock in your work station, or lock it out of sight if you are traveling with it.
- Be particularly cautious about keeping your laptop safe in airports and other public places..
Security Products
Vendor |
Advantages |
Disadvantages |
Sample Sites |
Cable Lock |
Inexpensive. Protects against theft from casual passerby.
|
Can be cut.* Does not protect data. |
http://www.anchorpad.com
http://us.kensington.com/html/1434.html
http://www.targus.com |
Beaconing Software |
Opportunity for recovering device. |
Subscription based cost. Does not protect data. |
http://www.pcphonehome.com
http://www.cyberangle.com |
Lock Box |
More Secure. Protects against theft by most criminals. |
Installation. Loss of key would be inconvenient. |
http://www.anchorpad.com
http://www.car-safe.com
|
LoJack |
Easy to install. No hardware required. |
Need expensive equipment to cost-justify. Does not protect data. |
http://www.lojackforlaptops.com |
*Some cable locks have an alarm feature whereby a piercing, loud whistle will sound if the cable is severed.
Disposal
Before disposing of a computer, follow the Computer Preparation Guide from University of Michigan Property Disposition.
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