What should you do if you suspect a security incident has occurred on your government laptop?

If you suspect a security incident has occurred on your government laptop, promptly reporting it to your IT department is the best course of action. The IT department is equipped with the expertise, tools, and protocols necessary to assess, address, and mitigate potential security threats effectively. By reporting the incident immediately, you enable them to contain any potential damage, protect sensitive information, and take necessary steps to secure the system. This proactive approach helps to maintain cybersecurity integrity and protects the entire network from further risks.

Additionally, attempting to fix the issue yourself or seeking advice from colleagues can lead to unintentional mistakes that might worsen the situation or compromise sensitive data. Ignoring the problem is also counterproductive, as it allows the security threat to remain unresolved and could result in significant consequences. Reporting to IT is the most responsible action in safeguarding government assets and ensuring compliance with security protocols.