What is the most important activity that users must do when handling sensitive data?

When handling sensitive data, one of the most crucial activities is to log off of workstations. Logging off helps to ensure that unauthorized individuals cannot access the system or the sensitive data after the legitimate user has finished their work. This practice adds a layer of security by protecting the data from being exploited by someone who could step into an unattended workstation.

While encrypting data, backing up files, and installing antivirus software are all important security measures, they do not directly address the immediate risk of leaving a workstation unattended. Encryption helps secure data from being read if intercepted, backups are essential to prevent data loss, and antivirus software protects against malicious software. However, these measures do not explicitly prevent unauthorized access to data during a user's active session, making logging off a paramount practice in maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of sensitive information.