96 Securing Your ComputerWhen using passwords, observe the following guidelines:• Choose a password that you can remember, but not one that is easy toguess. For example, do not use the names of family members or pets forpasswords.• It is recommended that you do not write down your password. If you dowrite it down, however, ensure that the password is stored in a securelocation.• Do not share your password with other people.• Ensure that people are not watching you when you type your password.NOTICE: Passwords provide a high level of security for data in your computer orhard drive. However, they are not foolproof. If you require more security, obtain anduse additional forms of protection such as data encryption programs.Use the User Accounts option in the Control Panel in the Microsoft®Windows® operating system to create user accounts or to change passwords.Once you create a user password, you must enter it each time you turn on orunlock your computer. If you do not enter a password within 2 minutes, thecomputer returns to its previous operating state. For more information, seeyour Windows documentation.If you forget any of your passwords, contact Dell (see "Contacting Dell" onpage 179). For your protection, Dell technical support staff will ask you forproof of your identity to ensure that only an authorized person can use thecomputer.If Your Computer Is Lost or Stolen• Call a law enforcement agency to report the lost or stolen computer.Include the Service Tag in your description of the computer. Ask that acase number be assigned and write down the number, along with thename, address, and phone number of the law enforcement agency. Ifpossible, obtain the name of the investigating officer.NOTE: If you know where the computer was lost or stolen, call a law enforcementagency in that area. If you do not know, call a law enforcement agency where youlive.• If the computer belongs to a company, notify the security office of thecompany.
