Answer :
Final answer:
The correct answer is b. USB mouse. Peripherals like external keyboards and USB mice are typically permitted for use with Government-furnished equipment due to their low security risk, while external hard drives are usually not permitted to prevent security breaches.
Explanation:
The correct answer is b. USB mouse. The question pertains to the type of personally-owned computer peripherals that are authorized for use with Government-furnished equipment (GFE). Generally, the use of personal peripherals like external keyboards and USB mice might be permitted because they do not represent a substantial security risk and are usually simple input devices.
Monitors too can be acceptable as they simply display the information processed by the computer. However, the use of external hard drives is typically restricted due to the risk of transferring potentially malicious software to the government system or unauthorized removal of sensitive data.
When using peripherals with GFE, always follow departmental or agency-specific regulations and guidance on cybersecurity to prevent potential risks such as computer addiction or repetitive motion injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome. Ergonomically designed input devices and responsible habits such as taking frequent breaks are important to reduce health problems associated with long-term computer use.
