Security

Defining security

"Security is the degree of protection against danger, loss, and criminals.

Security has to be compared and contrasted with other related concepts: Safety, continuity, reliability. The key difference between security and reliability is that security must take into account the actions of people attempting to cause destruction." (Wikipedia)

It's been said that you're only as secure as your weakest link. Consider the following:

• Your trash is only as secure as the shredding capability of your shredder.
• Your data is only as secure as your home or office... or the media that it is stored on.
• An organization is only as secure as the user that tapes their password to their laptop.
• You are only as secure online as your weakest password.
• Automated phone systems may only require your phone number and zipcode to access your account.

It's important that you take security matters into your own hands because it's your information and you're the first line in your own defense. Don't be afraid to ask questions about who can access your data or what an individual may need to know about you to gain access to your accounts. For that matter, test it yourself... you'll be surprised at what you discover, I promise!