4. Store and transfer securely

All data and samples should be secured against unauthorised access, theft, accidental loss or damage.

For example:

• Store physical records or biological samples under lock and key
• Password protect computing and mobile devices, and employ adequate antivirus protection
• Encrypt all digital copies of research data, including:
  • Files stored on personal computers, removable drives or USB sticks
  • Files stored on cloud-based systems *
  • Files and information transmitted over emails or other messaging services *
• When using online third party survey tools to collect data, check their security features, privacy policies and terms of use to make sure that subjects’ data will not be hacked easily, nor used for unwanted purposes.

 

* Major email and cloud storage providers offer a basic level of default encryption. However, you should consider using additional encryption software depending on the sensitivity of your data. ⁽¹²⁾ Seek advice from the IT or data security department if you need more help. 

Case study: The stolen laptop →