Working Securely

At dxw we care about the security of the data we create and work with. We are a remote first, office second organisation, so it will not be unusual for us to be working in a number of different environments. We need to be aware of our environment both physical and virtual to help us keep data safe. Below are a list of things that we do:

We use devices that dxw provides us, or approves us to use. This gives us the opportunity to get a head start by managing the security of the device, such as ensuring all devices have disk encryption enabled. (see the device policy)

We ensure that the applications and systems that we use are current, updating software and operating systems promptly and  ensuring we report any issues we encounter to our workplace technology team.

We look after and care for our equipment, so that it functions well and safely, again reporting any issues to the workplace technology team, or our line manager. When we leave our devices unattended we ensure they are locked, and our lock screens don’t show notifications.

We don’t trust systems over which we have little or no control, so we take precautions. So we don’t trust the security of wifi, we might be on a train or in a cafe, so we ensure that all the information we transfer over the wifi or the internet is encrypted, eg https or ssh but not vanilla ftp.

We are only human, remembering passwords is hard, so we use a password manager.

We are vigilant and mindful of the locations in which we work, some will be more secure than others. We are aware of when we might be overlooked, or when others may have physical access to our devices even when they are locked or stored. (also see Our Workspaces below)

We know how our devices operate, so we don’t make easily avoided mistakes. Eg, knowing that when you have a second screen or projector plugged in whether it turns off if you close the laptop lid, or does all the content on the laptop screen just bounce to the second screen, showing it to everyone.

When we share screens on a video call we take care not to share information not meant for the viewers.

Our Workspaces (Clear desk) #

All dxw personnel are encouraged to clear their desks of loose papers at the end of the working day and to lock your dxw devices.

When working in a dxw office space or a public place you must place any papers, notebooks or the like in a safe place, when you leave your desk. You must also lock your device. A safe place could be a locker, your bag, or on your person. If a colleague is willing to keep an eye on your paperwork/notebooks whilst you nip out for a beverage or rest break this is acceptable. If you voluntarily watch someone else’s notes/papers then you are accepting responsibility for the security of them. 

Classified documents should be stored in a locked cupboard or similar to minimise the chance of loss. Consider if they need to exist in hard copy at all. 

When working from home we need to apply a more individual approach. Each of us will know how we use our homes. Think about who has access, at what times, if supervised or unsupervised. Based on this please take suitable action to secure dxw information.

If you’d like any advice or have any questions, chat with the ISMS team.

Last updated: 23 March 2026