In today’s world of digital transformation and cloud computing, it is more important than ever to secure and protect your critical files and sensitive data. It is surprising to see how many companies regularly make simple mistakes that result in expensive breaches and loss of data. Here are the biggest mistakes security experts still see on a regular basis and what you can do to avoid making those mistakes in the future.
Mistake #1: Not Understanding Where Their Sensitive Data Resides
If you don’t fully understand where your sensitive data is housed, you can’t do a good job of protecting it. Understanding that issues comes down to having set policies that systematically and consistently categorize your data as sensitive and otherwise, and controlling the location and access to that information. It comes down to making sure that your data is handled appropriately, limiting who has access, and setting the guidelines in place that will protect it when hackers come knocking. This can mean having the appropriate cyber security measure in place for digital information, or housing your files in secure and controlled locations off-site. Whatever it means for you to protect your data, you should know what it takes to keep your information safe.
Mistake #2: Improper Classification
While you might be tempted to consider every piece of data as sensitive in an overprotective effort, if everything is considered sensitive chances are that none of it is protected. Consider breaking down your data into one of three classifications: restricted, confidential, or public. If data is restricted, it should require the highest level of clearance to access it. This is the most sensitive data that could cause great risk if compromised. Confidential data is moderately sensitive and comes with a moderate risk to the company if compromised. This level of data should only be accessed from within the company or department who owns the information. Public information is considered non-sensitive and access should be loosely controlled as necessary. Make sure you know what level of classification your data falls into so that you can plan to protect it appropriately.
Mistake #3: Ignoring Internal Threats
It is one thing to plan for a hack or cyber attack, but the vast majority of data loss comes from an internal breach. Disgruntled workers or former employees who still have access to networks, devices, files, or buildings can be an extremely important consideration when evaluating your security risks. It’s also worthwhile to pro-actively establish, monitor and enforce security protocols and to limit internal access to sensitive content. By limiting your exposure, you add an extra layer of protection to your data that will surely serve you well.
For more advice on how to prepare your business for a secure and risk–free 2017, reach out to the team at Happy Faces Records Management today.
