Since the beginning of the year, more than 17 million Americans have lost their jobs. Someone had to let them go.

Most bosses who aren't Donald Trump say that laying people off is one of the toughest tasks they face. And they have to do it more frequently all the time. In hopes of helping both firer and the fired, we talked to pros in the employment and therapy fields to come up with some advice for those who must wield the ax.

First rule: When delivering bad news, get to the point quickly, clearly and concisely. Jeffrey Garber, founder of the career services Web site www.360jobinterview.com, says he once fired a graphic designer who had trouble getting the message. "The employee said, 'I can change,'" he remembers. "She went on for half an hour, with me trying to tell her it was a final decision."

Your boss is furious about the abuse of the company's resources. You're facing disciplinary action because of an e-mail that made the rounds over your name.

You're being sacked for breaching corporate security. How could this happen?

WORKPLACE HAZARDS

The use of computer technology in the workplace has created a virtual minefield of potential pitfalls for employees who do not adhere to their corporation's computer usage policies.

Computer hardware, software and Internet access provided by an employer are intended for business use. The system belongs to the company and there should be no expectation of privacy on an employee's part. The company could engage in surveillance of your access and usage, including web surfing and e-mail content.

Here are some of the areas where you might be at risk and some tips to ensure that corporate security doesn't threaten your job security.