Working safely

What useful actions can you take right away to increase privacy during your research?

 

There are a number of general quick wins for you as a researcher; simple adjustments to your working method that ensure a great deal of added security. Below, you will find six relatively simple actions that significantly reduce the risk of data breaches. We advise every researcher to implement them where possible.

 


 

Privacy filter: a special type of foil that can be used on any laptop or desktop screen. It reduces the viewing angle, safeguarding data from prying eyes, which is useful, especially if you travel extensively for work. Search for ‘privacy filter laptop’ to find a suitable type.

 

Webcam cover: prevents unauthorised viewing from your webcam. A webcam cover is a 'small lock’ that is easy to install and can cover the webcam completely, if desired, making unauthorised viewing a thing of the past. Search for ‘webcam cover’ to find a suitable type.

 

Encryption of the hard drive: encryption protects the data on the drive from unauthorised access, as the drive can be easily removed from your laptop and be effortlessly read by a PC. BitLocker Drive Encryption is a good option for Windows, and FileVault will get the job done on Macs.

 

Terms of service (ToS) reader: many online services have included provisions in their ToS as to what they can do with your data. There are add-ons available for your browser to facilitate assessment of these often lengthy ToS documents. These add-ons provide additional information about the risks you may encounter when using the service.

 

Anti virus software: good anti-virus software and regular system updates are essential to prevent malicious attacks and unauthorised access to your computer or laptop. This software keeps your computer clean and secure.

 

Anti tracking and anti cookie software: web browser software that analyses cookies and provides information on what these cookies do and blocks harmful cookies. This software also checks whether a party is ‘tracking’ and collecting information about you, which it may pass on to third parties.