Information Assurance is everyone’s responsibility Published Jan. 25, 2008 By Airman 1st Class Torri Ingalsbe 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England -- Keeping official information secure is a vital part of mission success. It is every Airman's responsibility to keep our information secure. Some simple actions Airmen can take include removing their common access card when leaving the computer, staying current on training, and only using authorized devices for their computers. "People need to be sure and remove their common access card every time they leave their work area," said Master Sgt. William Tate, 48th Communications Squadron information assurance superintendent. Sergeant Tate said even if someone leaves for a short amount of time, such as getting a drink of water or a cup of coffee, they need to remove their CAC. "It's not uncommon for someone to get up for only a moment and have something come up that pulls them away from their desk for an hour. If they remain logged-on to their computer because they didn't remove their CAC, anyone has access to their information," he said. Another way to protect information is to ensure all training is up-to-date. Sergeant Tate said people need to complete their information assurance and assessment program training as soon as it comes due. The training is computer-based and is required annually. Devices like USB drives are also a liability regarding information security. "All external memory, like USB devices, must be registered and tracked," Sergeant Tate said. The use of personal USB devices is not authorized unless they've been cleared to use by information assurance. Sergeant Tate said wireless keyboards and mice are also unauthorized, unless approved. These few simple actions are an everyday way for every Airman to do their part in ensuring sensitive information remains secure. For more information, contact the 48 CS Information Assurance Office.