When we think of information security we think of computers, tapes, discs, modems, emails and such. But we need to take off the blinders and see the bigger picture. Primier Bank in Jefferson, MO was reminded of this recently and the rest of us should learn from their misfortune.

On a November night when many of the bankers were gathered at a local hotel to receive a Missouri Chamber of Commerce Award as one of the state's fastest growing businesses, a thief was breaking into their vehicles parked outside. One of those belonged to the banks chief financial officer. As many bankers do, he was taking some work home. Stolen from his truck was a list of October's new customers, 1,800 of them. This list had their names and account numbers, but no social security numbers or other confidential information. Also taken was a $250,000 non-negotiable bank certificate.

The bank immediately brought in security and attempted to recover the items and search trash bins for them as well. The book wasn't recovered, but notifications were made to law enforcement and the customers. Certainly that isn't the welcome letter the bank would want to send to new accounts. Now the customers are on notice to watch their accounts and the bank is doing the same.

We need to be vigilant in our security measures and remember that loss happen in the low-tech world, just like the hi-tech. Security procedures need to address confidential data, wherever it may be. Premier no longer allows this information outside the bank. What is your policy, will files or reports be in a personal vehicle tonight and will that employee stop on the way home being ever so much more at risk?