Securing Personal Information and Data

Protecting personal information and data is a multi-faceted process. First, a computer should be physically secured against being opened or stolen. Second, a computer should be configured in such a way that unauthorized users are prevented from booting a system using {alternate media}. Operating systems and applications like web browsers and email clients have many configuration options. Settings that provide a convenient experience for users are sometimes at odds with settings that are secure. Reducing/eliminating the personal information and data retained by operating systems and applications will reduce the risk of exposing that material.