Resources and tips to help you securely preserve, share, license, and create metadata for your data, plus writing a data management plan and citing data.
Data security means ensuring that data are kept safe from corruption and that access to data is suitably controlled.
Some data elements must remain confidential and are protected under HIPAA, FERPA, or IRB considerations.
Network data security
Store sensitive materials on computers that are not connected to the Internet or a network.
Only allow trusted individuals to troubleshoot computer problems.
Do not store or transfer confidential data on the Internet or in cloud storage.
Do not store confidential data on computers that are connected to any network.
Computer files and systems security
Ensure that the computers used for storing data have up-to-date virus protection.
Use passwords to secure files and computers.
Use privacy screens when working with confidential data.
Do not leave computers used for storing sensitive data unattended when outside of workplace.
Do not carry confidential data on laptops/USB drives when traveling.
Physical data security
Restrict access to buildings and rooms where sensitive data or research specimen are stored.
Keep physical paper files in locked file cabinets.
Do not store or transmit highly sensitive data without encryption.