What should be done with sensitive information when not in use?

When dealing with sensitive information, it is crucial to safeguard it appropriately to protect against unauthorized access and potential breaches of confidentiality. Securing sensitive information in a locked space ensures that it is not accessible to individuals who do not have the appropriate clearance or need to know. This practice aligns with established protocols for data protection, particularly in environments governed by regulations such as HIPAA, which emphasizes the importance of safeguarding patient's protected health information.

Continuing to keep sensitive information accessible, such as leaving it on a desk, poses significant risks of exposure to unauthorized individuals or unintended access. Sharing sensitive information with colleagues, while it may seem like a collaborative effort, can lead to breaches if those individuals do not have the appropriate clearance. Similarly, typing sensitive information into a shared document can compromise its security, as shared documents often have vulnerabilities that could expose the information to a wider audience than intended. Therefore, securing sensitive information in a locked space is a best practice and a vital step in maintaining privacy and compliance with data protection laws.