Final answer:
It is best to report a coworker's unauthorized requests for project information to the Security Office. Offer assistance politely through professional channels if you have relevant expertise. Avoid informal resolutions that bypass company protocols.
Step-by-step explanation:
When faced with a situation where a coworker is requesting information access to a project they are not assigned to, the appropriate course of action would be to report the incident to your Security Office. It's important to follow company protocol for such situations. Addressing such a request improperly could lead to unintended security breaches or confidentiality violations.
If your area of expertise overlaps with the project in question, and you believe you might be able to provide assistance or a better solution, it would be advisable to approach the situation tactfully and politely. In such a case, suggesting your assistance can be done through a professional channel such as a professional email. Communication should always be maintained professionally to avoid any form of misunderstanding or miscommunication.
Asking a coworker if they have noticed similar requests can be an informal first step, but it should not substitute the need to report the incident to the appropriate authorities within your organization, which ensures the incident is handled correctly and in line with company policies.