It is expected that there will be issues connected with data security in any type of system that stores data online.
However, throughout each year, there are more and more data security issues that we are warned of and it can be difficult to realise which pose a higher threat and which we should worry about most.
We recommend that you manage these 5 data security issues this year and here are some tips on how.
1. Mobile Working
This is a great way for you and others within your business to complete work in spite of wherever they may be in the world. In fact, now it is often the case that people will favour a job that allows them flexibility in terms of where and when they work over a high salary.
However, to avoid the problems of data breaches in cases of working away from the office, your business should have a secure system like a VPN through which employees can access company files and information.
A secure system will result in a lower risk to people accessing confidential information when they shouldn’t be.
2. EU Data Protection Regulation
With citizens’ increasing ability to decide what information of theirs they wish to be available online, it is vital that businesses protect themselves from any accusations of wrongdoing.
Your company should keep a record about exactly what information they are holding, where it was found and how it can be accessed and edited. This will help to reduce your company’s risk of being fined for, however accidentally, negligently breaching data regulations.
Refer to the ICOs’ Data Protection Guide for more details.
3. Data Proliferation
It is estimated that, every two years, the amount of data in the universe doubles in quantity. This can mean that companies are at risk of becoming overwhelmed by the amount of data they store and that is available to them.
To avoid becoming overwhelmed, it is important that your company can determine what data actually needs to be stored, and what is simply data clutter. If you keep only vital pieces of information, not only will it be easier to manage, but you can save money too.
Don’t forget to dispose of your IT waste responsibly, speak to us about safe IT Asset Disposal.
4. Bring Your Own Device
Employees bringing their own devices to work is only inevitable given the ubiquity and affordability of technology nowadays. However, it does raise issues.
How can you trust that an employee will not share confidential company information via their device once they have left the job?
You can avoid this, by implementing a strict policy on what files can be accessed by an employee’s own device and on who actually owns specific pieces of information.
5. Data Breaches
Ensuring that your business safely disposes of data should be of very high importance. In fact, you risk being fined if you don’t handle data in the correct way, and punishments for not doing so are set to become even tougher.
This can be mitigated by ensuring that all employees are fully aware of what is expected of them with regards to data disposal and the consequences of not adhering to rules.
Staff should know when they are expected to change passwords and how to make them strong. You should also make sure data is encrypted on any device it is stored on so that, if it does fall into the wrong hands, it is still safe.
[Photo Credit: Tim Gage ]
