SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/sec-idle-lock

What does the FTC suggest to lock employee computers after a period of inactivity?

Password-activated screen savers.

Start playing free

  1. Larger monitors
  2. Sticky notes on the screen
  3. Password-activated screen savers ✔

Why: If you walk away and the screen stays open, anyone passing can use your account. An automatic lock after a short idle time closes that gap. You can also lock manually when you leave.

Huh, didn't know that: The FTC also says to make it office policy to log out of your network and applications when not in use.

The dad joke
Why couldn't the computer take its hat off? Because it had CAPS LOCK on.
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: Password-activated screen savers. If you walk away and the screen stays open, anyone passing can use your account. An automatic lock after a short idle time closes that gap. You can also lock manually when you leave.

  1. FTC: Protecting Personal Information, A Guide for Business www.ftc.gov/business-guidance/resources/protecting-personal-information-guide-business
    Use password-activated screen savers to lock employee computers after a period of inactivity.
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. FTC: Cybersecurity for Small Business, Physical Security www.ftc.gov/business-guidance/blog/2018/11/cybersecurity-small-business-physical-security
    Make it office policy to log out of your network and applications when not in use.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.

Test yourself in the game

Security & PrivacyWhich password habit does the FTC say should be against company policy?Security & PrivacyWhy does the FTC now say connecting through public Wi-Fi is usually safe?Security & PrivacyBefore choosing a VPN app, the FTC says to check what about your data?

That's stuff everyone should know.