Open & Secure

Earlier this week, I was walking outside, through the patio by the Hark, when I noticed a table.  It was a nice sunny afternoon and there were plenty of people around but not at this table.  What this table did have was a laptop bag and a Blackberry sitting on it.  I wasn’t sure who they belonged to (contractor, faculty, staff or student?) but I looked around and the closest people to it were about 10 feet away having a discussion.

I realize we are an academic environment and for the most part we all feel pretty safe and trusting here.  The reality is that things happen here at HLS too.  A few months ago someone was bold enough to go into an office and walk away with a laptop.  Luckily it was encrypted and didn’t have any high risk data on it.  I can’t say the same for that  laptop bag and Blackberry on the table.  It would have been very easy for someone to pick them up and walk away with them.

How comfortable are you with someone getting your computer or cell phone?  Its not just about Harvard information but what about your own information. If someone stole your laptop and/or smartphone do you want them getting access to your personal information?  Are there documents that have your address, date of birth, phone numbers, or your kids names?  Are your email accounts linked to your smartphone?  Is your smartphone locked by a password?  Will the phone wipe out all of the data if someone tries to crack the password too many times?

The bad guys don’t need our help.  Please be aware of your surroundings and where your laptop and cell phone are.  It only takes a few seconds for them to walk..