Please review our Empoyee IT Policies below; More info is provided in your Employee Handbook (Section II - Security and Technology Policies)
Acceptable Use Policy: This policy specifies the appropriate use of county government IT resources, including hardware, software, email systems, and internet access. Employees must use these resources for official county business only and avoid any activities that could compromise the integrity of the county's IT infrastructure, such as visiting malicious websites or engaging in unauthorized software downloads. The policy also prohibits the use of county resources for personal gain or any illegal activities.
Security Policy: County government employees are required to adhere to stringent security protocols to protect sensitive government data. This includes using strong, unique passwords that must be changed regularly, encrypting emails containing confidential information, and ensuring that all devices are equipped with up-to-date antivirus software. Employees must also be vigilant against phishing attempts and report any suspicious activities immediately to the IT department. The policy may also mandate regular security training and awareness programs to keep employees informed about potential threats.
Privacy Policy: Given the sensitive nature of the data handled by county governments, a robust privacy policy is essential. Employees must understand their role in safeguarding personal information, such as citizen records, employee files, and legal documents. This includes following data minimization principles, only accessing information necessary for their job duties, and adhering to laws such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) or the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), as applicable. Data sharing with third parties must be strictly controlled and in compliance with relevant privacy regulations.
Remote Work Policy: With the increasing prevalence of remote work, county governments must establish clear guidelines to ensure that employees working from home or other remote locations maintain the same level of security and professionalism as in the office. This policy covers the use of secure connections, such as VPNs, to access county networks, the handling of physical documents, and ensuring the privacy and security of county information when using personal devices. It also addresses the expectations for availability during work hours and the proper use of video conferencing tools for meetings.
Incident Response Policy: An incident response policy is critical for quickly and effectively addressing IT security incidents that may affect the county's operations or compromise sensitive data. This policy outlines the steps employees should take if they suspect a security breach, including immediate notification of the IT department or designated incident response team. It also details the investigation process, the chain of communication during an incident, and the post-incident review to prevent future occurrences. This ensures that the county can restore services and maintain public trust in the event of an IT security incident.