Nano-lesson · usually takes 2–3 minutes

Physical security in the workplace

Lock your screen, don't let strangers in behind you, and keep a clear desk.

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Security is physical too

A stranger in work clothes with an armful of boxes gets more doors held open than any hacker. Security is physical too: an open back door, an unlocked screen, papers on a trolley.

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Good habits

• Lock your screen when you step away (Win+L) — and log out of shared computers, so the next person doesn't end up working under your name.
• Don't let strangers in behind you — not through the main entrance, and not through the propped-open back door by the loading bay. Ask politely: "Can I help you?"
• Clear desk — put sensitive papers away and lock them up.
• Wear your ID/access card visibly — so it's easy to see who belongs there.

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Remember

💡

A locked screen and a closed door stop most "accidental" breaches.

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What the research says

Knowledge rarely turns into new habits on its own. Habits stick best when the secure option is made easy — a screen that locks automatically, doors that require a card, dedicated places to lock papers away — rather than relying on you remembering it on a busy day.

Prümmer et al., Computers & Security 2024 (meta-analysis).

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Question 1 of 3

You step away from your computer for five minutes to fetch something. What do you do?

Lock the screen (Win+L) — it takes one second Turn off the monitor so no one can see what's on it Leave it as it is — you'll be right back, and your colleagues know you

Question 2 of 3

A person in workwear with an armful of boxes reaches the card-lock door at the same time as you and looks at you expectantly. What do you do?

Hold the door, but keep an eye on where the person goes Ask politely "Can I help you?" and ask them to use their own card Hold the door — anything else would be rude

Question 3 of 3

You head off for a break. On the trolley is the list with names and health information from your round. What do you do?

Turn the paper face-down so it can't easily be read Take the list with you or lock it away Leave it there — you'll be back in ten minutes

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