Physical Threats Safety Guide
Threats Against Devices
Devices like laptops and tablets can contain sensitive data and credentials. Losing physical control of them is as dangerous as clicking a phishing link. Here is how to handle common physical threats.
Report Lost or Stolen Devices Immediately
If your Clark College device is lost or stolen, time is critical. Report the incident by following the steps on the Report an Incident page. The faster you report it, the sooner we can prevent unauthorized access to your device's data.
Never Leave Devices Unattended
Never leave your device unattended in public spaces. If you must step away, take your device with you or lock it in a secure drawer. If you cannot take it, ensure it is locked and physically tethered (if possible), but remember that no lock is as good as keeping it in sight.
Avoid Unknown USB Drives and Cables
Never plug in a found USB drive, charging cable, or peripherals. A USB drive left in a parking lot can install malware automatically the moment it connects. Similarly, unknown charging cables at gas stations or airports could charge your battery while stealing information.
Always Lock Your Screen When Away
Press Windows Key + L on Windows or Control + Command + Q on Mac. An unlocked screen allows anyone walking by to read emails, access files, or change settings as if they were you.
Document-Related Threats
Data isn't just digital. Paper documents containing names, IDs, or financial info are equally vulnerable. Improper handling can lead to identity theft and privacy violations. Here is the best approach.
Shred Sensitive Documents Before Disposal
Never throw sensitive documents directly into the trash. This opens the door to dumpster diving, where attackers search through waste bins to find usable personal information. Always use the designated cross-cut shredders located throughout campus.
Retrieve Printed Documents Immediately
Do not leave printed documents sitting on a shared printer tray or copier. Opportunistic thieves can grab these sensitive papers from printers before the owner returns. If you print a document with sensitive information, stand by the machine until it finishes and collect it immediately.
Keep Sensitive Documents Out of Plain Sight
Do not leave confidential papers, sticky notes with passwords, or whiteboards with sensitive data visible on your desk. Students or visitors can easily read these materials.
Prevent Tailgating
Tailgating occurs when an unauthorized person follows an authorized employee through a secured door. If someone without a badge tries to follow you in, politely stop them and ask for their Clark College ID. Secure doors exist to protect people and data, but holding them open defeats that purpose. Report suspicious tailgating attempts immediately by following the steps on the Report an Incident page.
Contact Us
General Inquiries: For non-urgent questions, email infosec@clark.edu.
Report an Incident: To report an information security incident, please visit the Report an Incident page.
Additional Resources
Multi-Factor Authentication Guide