Last time we talked about data leakage. We looked at what it is and why you should be wary of it. This time we want to talk about how to protect yourself from it.
We’ve selected several important tips. Following them should help you reduce the risks of data leakage.
A risk profile
A risk profile is an analysis of the threat types a company may face when dealing with client data. Problems may vary, but it’s important to try to describe them in detail.
Making a profile is a complex and structured process that identifies the possible emergence of vulnerabilities and risks. This gives a company a foundation for its data protection strategy. Just don’t look for easy ways out or short-cuts when solving issues of information security.
Scattered data
Scattered data is not only difficult to analyse, but also constitutes a security risk. Information that is stored in geographically distant and unrelated places is slow to identify and process. It may also end up in unauthorised and unverified applications. Businesses risk losing control over websites and they may be unable to guarantee that their data are stored correctly.
Develop data management plans. Always Keep them organised and up to date.
Only collect the data that you need
Companies need to focus on obtaining data that is useful for their work and nothing else. By doing this, businesses reduce the external “value” of information for illegal resale, making them less attractive targets for hackers, while at the same time, increasing client confidence.
Reducing external value minimalises the risk of data theft because hackers are less likely to covert information of little value. Clients’ names, phone numbers, location or payslips are more important than, for example, simple email addresses. The more data collection points a company has, the more attractive clients’ information is to outsiders.
Gathering only the information you need also increases client confidence. When you collect data that seem unnecessary, consumers become suspicious and start questioning why so much “non-critical” information needs to be shared.
Access restriction
Not all company employees should disclose 100% of the client data that are collected. Do all employees need to have the same level of access? Of course they don’t.
Each additional person who is free to view information about clients is a potential risk. Restrict access to reduce the risk of leakage.
A plan
Companies may face data security breaches or fall victim to external cyberattacks. However, threats can be predicted and strategies to mitigate negative outcomes can be chosen, thoughtful approaches can be applied, and reliable plans of action in the event of an attack can be devised.
If the worst happens, outside help will be needed. Find a data security professional before it’s too late.
Intis Telecom takes a responsible approach to client data. Our team monitors data security, so you can safely use our solutions, such as a special platform for sending business text messages. Try it now, registration is free.
