In a study released by Websense, the threat-protection vendor that bought PortAuthority for $90 million earlier this year, companies are courting trouble through their leniency regarding temporary workers.
Of 100 temps interviewed, for instance, 87.7 percent told Websense they were able to access network-drive documents or folders used by permanent staff; 62.4 percent had used someone else's login details to access a network computer; 91.2 percent were able to print anything they liked; 42.1 percent were able to connect a USB device, PDA, or iPod to the company network; and 37 percent were given passwords to key company systems like payroll. A full 52 percent were allowed to use someone else's email account or a general email address on the company network while they worked there.
Sure, Websense has an axe to grind, but the risks are worth considering. After all, who hasn't been tempted to turn to contractors for assistance when the relatives are landing, the shopping remains undone, and the kids are counting on Santa? In the rush, it's easy to forget these folks don't work for your company.
Hopefully, with a bit of foresight, firewalling, encryption, password protection, and plain old common sense, users can get the outside help they need without forfeiting their jobs in the process.
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