Lock your screen every time you walk away

Why it matters

When you leave a computer unlocked, anyone who sits down is you. They can read and send your email, open company files, approve things in your name, or plug in a USB drive. In an office, it might be a visitor, a cleaner, a delivery person or a colleague playing a prank. In a café or on a train, it could be anyone.

How to lock it

• Windows: press the Windows key + L.
• Mac: press Control + Command + Q.
• Phones and tablets: press the side button.

Unlocking takes a PIN, a fingerprint or your face, so it costs a second or two.

Make it a habit

• Lock it whenever you stand up, even for a moment.
• Let the computer lock itself after a few minutes of no use, as a safety net.
• Do not write your PIN or password on or near the computer.
• In public places, position the screen away from others.

Phones count too

A phone with your work email and authenticator app on it needs a screen lock as much as a laptop does.