The internet access policy
The internet is very important in carrying out business operations. Nonetheless, it can be the best way for workers to waste time or cause security concerns. A well thought out internet policy enables one to enjoy the benefits of benefits while lowering the chances of pitfalls. Consequently, it ensures that workers use the internet effectively by stating what is allowed and what is not. The policy also set up procedures that reduce risks.
The internet access policy that I would recommend for a firm would be to adopt inclusive multiple factors that should be considered. Restrictions on the use of the internet should be made depending on the business privacy restrictions as well as the applicable data protection policies for its clients. The following rules and restrictions could be applied for internet usage;
Allow the workers to access websites for business purposes only:
The policy applies to all workers in the firm who have access to the internet to be only used in carrying out the firm’s operations. Again, the use of the internet should only be allowed where such use supports the objectives of the firm. Access to the internet is a privilege to all workers and thus must adhere to the policies concerning internet usage. Violating the policy should result in a legal action which may, in turn, result in the termination of the employment contract. Hence, internet usage should be strictly restricted to business operation only and in cases where the employee is not certain of what is constituted in the policy, he or she should ask for guidance and clarification from the supervisor.
Limiting personal use or restrict the websites workers can visit when web browsing:
The management needs to make it clear to the workers concerning the policy that the web should only be used for business operations. Again, when they are working on your dime, it is vital to ensure they are not wasting time on irrelevant websites. Consequently, if the employer is worried about the firm’s productivity because the workers are spending quality time browsing in inappropriate websites, he or she should consider blocking those websites from use. After blocking the websites, the employer should make it clear to the workers the reason behind blocking some of the websites. It may seem unfair to the employees on the restriction of internet usage but it may protect the office network from malicious content and viruses found in some websites. This will in turn help in speeding up the overall connectivity.
Restrictions on access to sensitive company and client data:
The use of the internet by employees without any restrictions may be a huge threat to data security. This may be client payment information, employee information or business private information. Every firm is worried about the security of sensitive information. Again, there have been many incidences of data breaches nowadays. It is vital for a firm to accurately segregate between sensitive and non-sensitive information to outline a strict procedure for handling essential data. Organizational data can b classified into private, public and restricted, hence the need to enact security measures accordingly. Moreover, while public information requires minimal security, the private info needs caution when handling. In case of restricted info, the workers should be given access when appropriate. Employees also need to take precautionary measures like not leaving their laptops or other devices unattended especially at public places. By employees following these precautionary measures, they can make a significant contribution to minimizing the risk of data breaches.
Control on the download and upload of data and software:
Typically, downloading or uploading of data to or from the internet involves various risks which your policy should aim to reduce. It is therefore imperative to ensure that employees fully comprehend the dangers associated with downloading data from unknown sources, such as websites that do offer expensive software for free. Usually, there are copyright laws that govern the use of software downloaded. The employer should often remind the employees that any unauthorized download of software is a serious offense that could not only harm the firm computers but also essential data through malicious content.
The employees should not use the firm network to;
Download software or files which are not permitted.
Download or upload music, movies or copyrighted materials.
Download or upload any obscene or illegal material.
Send confidential data to unauthorized persons.
Invading other people’s privacy as well as sensitive data.
To sum up, with all the above-stipulated rules and restrictions in place, there should also be a policy revolving around the disciplinary actions that every worker might face for not adhering to the rule and restrictions. Again, serious violations may lead to the termination of an employment contract or a legal action where appropriate.