In a world where personal information has become a valuable commodity security is the top priority for businesses of protection for your data all sizes. A single breach could expose customers to identity theft or other financial harm and expose businesses to penalties, reputational harm and even lawsuits. Luckily, there are numerous methods to safeguard personal information and help prevent hacking and theft.
TAKE STOCK
Create a strategy for storing sensitive data in your business’s computers and files only in the time necessary. This could mean taking inventory of devices that gather information, such as PIN pads and cameras for surveillance, as well as the identification of connections between computers and external sources, such as the internet, computers used to support your network by service providers, or digital copier.
SCALE DOWN
Limit access to sensitive information to only those who need it. This minimizes the risk of the threat of an insider attack or loss from hackers. Pro tip: Use the principle of least privilege. New accounts should be given the lowest level of access to sensitive data. Increase the privileges as the account grows in seniority or the job requirement grows.
THEN LOCK IT
Passwords should be strong and complex. Easy-to-guess passwords can be hacked and used for unauthorised access in a matter of seconds. Don’t send passwords via emails in plain text. You should also make sure that all files are encrypted to protect confidential or private data.
