Course Description

Public officers play a vital role in safeguarding official information and protecting government assets. This programme provides support staff with a comprehensive understanding of Government Security Instructions, information classification, secure handling procedures, ICT security responsibilities, and legal obligations relating to confidentiality and data protection.

Course Objectives

The objectives of the course are to enable participants to:

• • understand the aims and importance of government security instructions.
• • recognise threats to official information and the consequences of unauthorised disclosure.
• • understand the classification and handling requirements of official information.
• • apply procedures for the preparation, movement, storage, and disposal of classified documents.
• • understand responsibilities when using ict equipment and handling digital information.
• • develop awareness of legal obligations in safeguarding official information.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the programme, participants will be able to:

• • explain the importance of information security within the public service.
• • apply appropriate procedures for handling classified documents and materials.
• • protect official information and ict resources from unauthorised access.
• • follow secure practices when using government equipment and systems.
• • identify security breaches and report them appropriately.
• • understand the legal consequences of failing to protect official information.

Topics covered:

• • Aims and Importance of Government Security Instructions
• • Threats to Official Documents and Materials
• • Consequences of Unauthorised Disclosure of Information
• • Principles of Handling Official Information
• • Classification of Official Information
• • Preparation of Classified Documents
• • Movement of Official Documents
• • Custody and Storage of Classified Documents, Files and Materials
• • Reproduction and Disposal of Classified Information
• • Removal of Documents and Laptops for Official Purposes
• • Protection of ICT Equipment and Stored Information
• • Password and Internet Security Policies
• • Handling of Cabinet Papers
• • Use of Telephone, Fax and Mobile Devices
• • Safe Keeping of Keys
• • Data Protection and Confidentiality
• • Reporting and Managing Security Breaches
• • Legal Responsibilities and Penalties