Some telework security guidelines
The Office of Personnel Management and the General Services Administration support an interagency Web site called Telework.gov. It has links to various tools, relevant guidance and legislation, along with reports and studies related to telework.
Under Policies and Procedures, the site offers the following security advice.
Agencies should provide teleworkers with guidelines on selecting appropriate technologies, software and tools.
- Employees should choose wireless and other home-networking technology in accordance with their agencies’ security goals.
- All home networks connected to the Internet via a broadband connection must have firewall technology installed.
- Web browsers should be configured to limit vulnerability to intrusions.
- Operating systems should be configured to enhance security.
The site also states that employees who telework must:
- Participate in information systems security training.
- Achieve sufficient technical proficiency to implement required security measures.
- Ensure the privacy and security of any sensitive information accessed at the telework site or transported between locations.
- Protect individual rights to personal privacy.
- Comply with agency policies and any additional requirements detailed in the telework agreement.
About the Author
John Zyskowski is a senior editor of Federal Computer Week. Follow him on Twitter: @ZyskowskiWriter.