New Mexico Security Guard Practice Exam

How should personal information be handled by security guards?

1. It should be shared with other personnel

2. It should be kept confidential and secure

3. It should be documented in reports

4. It should only be shared if necessary

The correct answer is: It should be kept confidential and secure

The handling of personal information by security guards is primarily focused on maintaining confidentiality and ensuring the information remains secure. This approach is crucial because security guards frequently come into contact with sensitive data about individuals, including employees, clients, and visitors. Keeping this information confidential protects privacy rights and builds trust in the security presence. By ensuring that personal information is secure, security guards minimize the risk of identity theft, unauthorized access, and potential misuse of data. This can include physical measures, like secure filing systems, as well as adherence to protocols for electronic data. Confidentiality policies reinforce the ethical responsibility of security personnel to safeguard the information they are privy to in their professional roles. While documentation and limited sharing may have their places in specific contexts—such as reporting incidents or communicating with relevant personnel—these practices should never compromise the fundamental priority of confidentiality. Therefore, the emphasis on keeping information secure aligns with best practices in the security industry, reflecting a commitment to protecting individual privacy.