Returning to the Office: 10 Best Practices to Protect Information

With the end of remote work in many companies, thousands of professionals are returning to the office. This return to a shared environment brings not only the chance to reconnect with colleagues, but also the need to reinforce security, protection, and privacy habits.
In this context, being in a shared space means that data and documents can be exposed more easily. That’s why it’s important to think twice before carrying out certain actions.
So, what kind of actions are these? Let’s take a look.

Best Security Practices in the Workplace

To make the return to on-site work safer and smoother, we’ve put together some quick security and protection tips that, although simple, make a big difference and can be easily applied by all users in their daily routines. They are:

1. Lock your workstation

When stepping away from your computer, lock your screen. This prevents unauthorized people from accessing confidential records or performing actions in your name.
It’s like locking your front door: quick, simple, and avoids major issues.

2. Use only your corporate e-mail

The organization’s e-mail has filters and protection mechanisms against digital attacks. Avoid sending corporate information from personal accounts.
This reduces the risk of data leaks and keeps communication secure.

3. Be careful with confidential conversations

Meetings and discussions about strategic subjects should happen in private spaces.
Talking about projects or passwords in common areas makes it easier for others to overhear. Protecting sensitive information is part of everyday corporate security.

4. Do not share passwords and avoid personal use of devices

Passwords are individual. Sharing them or using corporate computers for personal activities increases your exposure.Remember: each employee is responsible for their own privacy and digital security.

5. Be careful with physical documents

Printed documents with confidential information must be stored safely. Never leave them on desks or printers.The same applies to folders, reports, and contracts with sensitive data.

6. Dispose of information securely

Before throwing away any document, check whether it contains internal information. If so, use shredders or designated disposal bins.This prevents important records from falling into the wrong hands.

7. Avoid using personal devices

Whenever possible, use only corporate equipment to access company systems and files.
Personal devices may not have the same level of protection, increasing the risk of attacks or leaks.

8. Pay attention to USB devices

Personal USB drives and external disks may contain malware. Check their origin before connecting them.Prefer devices provided by the company, which are tested and monitored by the IT team.

9. Think before you click

Fake e-mails and malicious links continue to be common attack techniques.
Check the sender and the content before opening attachments or links. When in doubt, not clicking is the safest choice.

10. Report suspicious behavior

If you notice anything strange, such as:

• Unusual e-mails;
• Unauthorized access attempts;
• Unknown people inside the building

Inform the information security team immediately. Acting quickly prevents bigger problems.

Security and privacy in the workplace depend on consistent everyday actions. Each employee plays an important role in protecting company data—whether by locking the screen, checking an e-mail’s origin, or safely disposing of documents.
Adopting these practices shows responsibility and collaboration. In a world where digital scams are increasingly common, thinking twice before clicking or downloading something suspicious helps prevent losses and keeps the environment safe for everyone.

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