5.5 Physical Security

The physical security of computing resources (computers, equipment, files, etc.) is actually the first principle of good security, because as long as someone can obtain physical access to your computer he/she can gain control over it. By instituting a few simple safeguards, you can greatly limit security breaches and other unauthorized access to computing resources. The Texas Property Accounting Standard (� 403.276) states: "If [an] investigation discloses that a property loss has been sustained by the state through the fault of a state official or employee, the Attorney General shall make written demand on the state official or employee for reimbursement to the state for the loss sustained." In other words, you are held responsible for property that has been assigned to you. This property includes (but is not limited to) computers, pagers, cell phones, etc.

Here are a few helpful hints to safeguard the physical security of items that are your responsibility:

• Log out when leaving your computer.

• Close and lock your office door every time you leave.

• Don't leave your office keys in easily accessible locations-secure them.

• Complete a “Property Custody Receipt” (obtainable from the Asset Management department) to authorize official removal and return of University property from campus

• Restrict the number of keys to your office.

• Know who accesses your office. (It may be necessary to maintain an attendance log for high security areas.)

• Use a screen-saver that requires a password to get back into your computer after the screen saver activates

• Keep your passwords and computer user-ids a secret.

• Report suspicious looking persons or activity to the UNT Police department.

• Express any concerns about physical security to your supervisor.