BitLocker Policy for Labor Unions and Nonprofits
At VM Tech Computer Services, we work with nonprofits across various industries, tailoring security policies to ensure end users, data, and software remain secure and accessible. Some of the policies we implement and manage include cybersecurity measures, security awareness training, data backup and retention strategies, and encryption technologies.
What is BitLocker?
BitLocker is a security technology introduced by Microsoft in 2006. It encrypts a device’s hard drive to protect it from unauthorized access. Once encrypted, data can only be decrypted using a decryption key or a 48-digit numerical password. When deployed on modern hardware equipped with a TPM (Trusted Platform Module), BitLocker has little to no impact on system performance.
Benefits of Deploying BitLocker
- Automatic Device Encryption: Ensures data is protected immediately upon setup.
- Unauthorized Access Protection: Guards against unauthorized access to data if a device is lost or stolen.
- Compliance with Cybersecurity Standards: Helps organizations meet requirements such as HIPAA, SOC2, ISO, and NIST.
- Authentication Flexibility: Offers options such as PINs, passwords, smart cards, or USB keys in addition to TPM-based encryption.
How to Deploy BitLocker
BitLocker can be deployed in multiple ways, but for organizations, it’s crucial to use methods that ensure proper management and support. At VM Tech, we specialize in deploying and managing BitLocker through Microsoft Entra or via a domain controller for seamless integration and oversight.
Case Study: Securing Data for a Labor Union
One of our nonprofit clients is a large labor union representing healthcare workers across Southern California and other states. This organization handles highly sensitive data and employs a mobile workforce, with staff representatives regularly visiting hospitals, clinics, and members.
To protect their data, we recommended and implemented BitLocker encryption for all mobile Windows based devices, including laptops and tablets. Since deploying BitLocker, the union has faced multiple incidents of lost or stolen devices. However, thanks to BitLocker’s encryption, no data was accessed or compromised in these instances.
Security as a policy
For organizations handling sensitive data, especially those with mobile or remote workforces, developing and deploying a robust device encryption policy is essential. BitLocker provides an effective, reliable solution to protect data in case devices are lost, stolen, or accessed by unauthorized individuals.
If you need guidance or assistance in developing, deploying, or managing encryption policies, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at VM Tech Computer Services. We’re here to help.
Virgil Motta
President