Databus Issue: 2005 3 07/18/2005
President's Message
Terrell Tucker CETPA President
PDF
The idea of privacy in the workplace appears to be headed for extinction. New “sleuthing” technologies become available almost daily and the number of court cases exploring various aspects of computer-based employee misconduct is on the rise. Imagine an employee sitting at his/her desk and browsing the Internet, sending an e-mail to a coworker or downloading music from a peer site. It’s pretty easy to feel “protected” as long as his/her display is hidden from view of others. Since the computer is a device, human nature seems to increase the comfort level since you are “alone.” But, are you? Not a chance!
Gone are the days when only the bad guys had advanced and powerful sniffing tools. Forensic technology is no longer reserved only for law enforcement agencies. Traffic management and reporting tools are sold for pennies compared to the prices of just a few years ago. These tools have become commonplace, surprisingly affordable, and much easier to use than in days gone by.
None of us like the idea of busting a co-worker for inappropriate use of technology, but we have a responsibility to our employers (and the public) that demands our attention regarding misuse. This issue of DataBus should provide you with valuable information in the areas of information security and policy enforcement to better help you keep your networks, employees, and students safe.
Be sure to stay tuned for future issues that will contain even more information in the areas of security and enforcement. Also, keep your eyes open for speaker updates on the Fall Conference as well, since that’s always a great place to learn from others or to share your successes.
