Handling Information

Clear Desk & Locked Screen

Foundational

Not every threat comes down a wire. An unlocked screen, a sensitive document left on a desk, or a confidential call in a public place can leak information just as easily. Locking your screen and keeping sensitive material out of sight are two-second habits that close an easy door.

Wherever you work — the office, home, a café, a train — people can see your screen and your desk. An unlocked, unattended computer is an open account anyone can use as you; a printout or sticky note left lying around is data anyone passing can read. These are some of the simplest leaks to prevent and the easiest to forget.

The habits are small and quickly become automatic: lock when you leave, tidy away what's sensitive, and be aware of who's around when you're handling confidential information.

Lock and tidy

AlwaysLock your screen every time you step away from your device, even for a moment (Windows key + L, or Control + Command + Q on a Mac).
DoClear sensitive papers, notes, and removable drives from your desk when you leave, and store or shred them properly — don't leave them out overnight.
DoCollect printouts from shared printers straight away, and shred confidential documents rather than binning them.
DoPosition your screen away from windows and walkways where sensitive information could be overlooked.
ConsiderA privacy screen filter if you regularly work with sensitive data in public or open spaces.

Out and about

DoBe aware of who can see or hear you in public — shoulder-surfing on a train or in a café is real.
Do notHave confidential calls or video meetings where strangers can overhear, or leave devices unattended in public.
NeverLeave a device logged in and unattended where someone else could use it as you.

Ask yourself

AskIf I walked away right now, could someone use my computer or read my screen?
AskIs there anything sensitive on my desk or printer that shouldn't be left out?
AskWho can see my screen or hear my call where I'm working?

Why it matters: Some of the most embarrassing and avoidable leaks happen in plain sight — an unlocked laptop someone walks up to, a customer document left on a printer, a confidential call overheard on a train. Locking your screen and keeping sensitive material out of view costs seconds and removes an easy opportunity for both honest mistakes and deliberate snooping.