How to Provide Protection For Your Data

In an age where personal information is now a valuable commodity and the need to protect it is the top priority for individuals and companies of all sizes. One breach can expose customers to identity theft and get more other financial damage, and it can expose businesses to penalties, reputational damage and even lawsuits. There are a myriad of methods that can be employed to safeguard personal data as well as prevent hacking or theft.

TAKE STOCK

Create a plan to store sensitive information in your company’s computers and files only for in the time essential. This may include taking inventory of devices that collect personal information, including PIN pads and security cameras and identifying computer connections to external sources such as the internet or computers utilized by service providers to help support your network, or digital copiers.

SCALE DOWN

Limit access to sensitive data to those who require it. This minimizes the risk of insider threats or losses from hackers. Pro tip: Follow the principle of least privilege by giving new accounts the smallest level of access to sensitive data. They can increase this privilege only as they rise in rank or job necessity.

LOCK IT

Passwords should be strong, complex and unique. Easy-to-guess passwords can be hacked and used for unauthorised access in a matter of seconds. Don’t send passwords by email in plain text. And ensure that all files contain confidential or private data.