|
|
Cornerstone Properties, Inc.
Computer Security Policy
| OVERVIEW | HARDWARE | SOFTWARE | pcANYWHERE | |
| INTERNET | PASSWORDS | MONITORING SYSTEM USE | PENALTIES |
OVERVIEW
The security of Cornerstone’s computers and data is
everyone’s responsibility. The following outlines procedures to follow whenever
computer hardware, software, or networks owned by Cornerstone Properties, Inc. are used.
Since all possible scenarios cannot be covered in a brief policy statement,
contact Cornerstone's System Administrator (Xjstueve@Xcpgroup1.com)
with specific questions that are not addressed in this document. In general, if any action that
will reflect poorly on Cornerstone, will disrupt another’s work, or is illegal,
it is
prohibited.
HARDWARE
Computer hardware provided by Cornerstone Properties is to be used
only for the business purposes of Cornerstone Properties.
Computer equipment should not leave the premises unless authorized.
PC’s should be turned off when employees leave at night (if the employee will not be calling into the computer from home). This will make it difficult for someone else to access the network through an individual’s computer.
A screen saver with a password should be used if your PC will be on and unattended for an extended period of time.
SOFTWARE
Computer software provided by Cornerstone Properties is intended for
use at the office unless noted otherwise. Software should not leave the premises unless it
is authorized.
Making unauthorized copies of most software packages ("pirating") is illegal. Pirated software should not be brought on to the premises.
Employees should not install any software on their PC, laptop, or network system. If new software is required to perform a job, the IS department is to install it.
Some employees work at home and exchange computer files between work and home PC’s. Computer viruses can be spread through the use of infected floppy disks. In addition, Microsoft Word and Excel files can be contaminated by computer viruses. If possible, home computers and floppy disks should be scanned for viruses to prevent the spread of computer viruses.
pcANYWHERE: pcANYWHERE allows access to an office PC from a remote location. In order to use this software, the host PC must remain turned on and logged into the network. This creates a security risk, so the password feature in pcANYWHERE should be used to minimize this risk. Encryption should be used to prevent eavesdropping on data. In addition, a screen saver with a password can be utilized on the PC.
E-MAIL
E-mail is a convenient tool for exchanging information with others.
It also provides a convenient way to keep permanent copies of transactions. However,
keeping unnecessary e-mail messages can create space limitations on the network. E-mail
with attachments (Excel spreadsheets, Word documents, pictures, etc.) takes up even more
disk space. All necessary e-mail messages should be kept, but any e-mail messages that are
outdated or unnecessary should be deleted.
It is unlikely, but e-mail messages can be intercepted and read by people other than the intended recipient. Caution should be used if confidential information is being sent electronically. If necessary, confidential information can be sent in password protected Word or Excel file attachments.
If e-mail is received from an unknown source with attached files with ".EXE", ".COM", or ".BAT" extensions, the IS department should be notified. These types of files may harbor viruses. The same caution should be used with Microsoft Word and Excel files since these files can also contain viruses.
INTERNET
The Internet contains a wealth of information, but it also contains
a multitude of distractions that can waste a great deal of time. Additionally, downloaded
files could pose a threat to the computer systems and data at Cornerstone. This service is
to be used judiciously.
Files from the Internet are not to be downloaded without approval from the IS department. Although there are many respectable sites that contain safe and useful information, there is a risk of downloading harmful files onto the corporate network.
Viewing or downloading objectionable material (violent, pornographic, etc.) is prohibited.
PASSWORDS
Passwords protect each employee’s privacy and the
company’s data. These suggestions with regard to passwords are offered:
Note: Certain applications on the system make it possible to monitor user activity. The primary functions of these applications are for network security and performance. However, user actions are also recorded during their use. Employees should act accordingly.
PENALTIES
Failure to comply with these guidelines can result in disciplinary
action.
 Proceed to Secure Site |
Cornerstone
Properties, Inc 833 West Main Street Carmel, IN 46032 Tel: (317) 574-4700 Fax: (317) 574-4701 TDD: 1-800-948-0627 |
 Cornerstone
Home |
