Modification of Data

For both operational and policy reasons, it may be necessary for Administrators to make changes to user files on computers for which they are responsible.

Wherever possible this should be done in such a way that the information in the files is preserved:

• rename or move files, if necessary to a secure off-line archive, rather than deleting them;
• instead of editing a file, move it to a different location and create a new file in its place;
• remove information from public view by changing permissions (and if necessary ownership).

Where possible the permission of the owner of the file should be obtained before any change is made, but there may be urgent situations where this is not possible. In every case the user must be informed as soon as possible what change has been made and the reason for it.

The Administrator may not, without specific individual authorisation from the Management modify the contents of any file in such a way as to damage or destroy information.