This is an example policy. We do not recommend it for any purpose

This document recommends procedures for handling physical mail (not e-mail). Following the increase of terrorist activity worldwide, staff should be on guard against dangerous packages arriving in the post, or by courier. There is no reason to think that Company Name would be chosen as a target - it is probably extremely unlikely, so staff should not worry unduly.

Staff may also recieve warnings from other sources, e-mail in particular. Many of these warnings are hoaxes and untrue - a well-known hoax about the "Klingerman Virus" has been circulating recently - it is untrue, there is no such virus. In general, do not follow the instructions in warnings unless they come directly from a known, authoritative source, the Hong Kong Police, for example. Any warnings received in e-mail should be forwarded to Technical Support for verification.

Threats in physical mail can be divided into two categories: biological and explosive.

Signs

The following signs should increase your level of suspicion:

• Check the sender's details - is the mail expected?
• Any letter or package containing a white powder should be treated as a biological hazard.
• Bulky packages are suspicious - are you expecting a package of that size from that sender?
• Other unusual features: protruding wires, odd sounds, odd smell, signs of oil stains or content leakage.

Action

• Don't Panic.
• If the package is unopened, do not open it.
• Do not touch or move the package.
• Evacuate the area, prevent people entering.
• Call the Emergency Services and explain the situation.

Biological

• Switch off air conditioning or fans, close windows. Some biological agents can be carried on air currents.
• If you have touched the material, wash immediately. Do not touch other people or things they might touch.

Explosive

• Do not use mobile phones or other electronic equipment - it may trigger the device.