In a world in which personal data is a valuable resource, protecting that data is a top issue for both individuals and companies of all sizes. A single breach can expose customers to identity theft, financial damage or even lawsuits. There are a variety of ways to secure personal information and prevent hacking.

TAKE STOCK

Create a plan to store sensitive information in your business’s files and computers only until it’s required. This could involve taking inventory of devices that store personal information, including PIN pads and security cameras and also identifying connections between computers and external sources www.datafinest.pro/2020/06/17/data-management-by-data-room/ like the internet or the computers that are used by service providers to help support your network or digital copiers.

SCALE DOWN

Limit access to sensitive data to those who require it. This reduces the potential of insider threats or losses from hackers. Pro tip: Use a principle called least privilege. Give new accounts the lowest access level to sensitive data. Then increase that privilege as the account grows in seniority or the requirement for employment grows.

THEN LOCK IT

Make sure your passwords are strong, complex and unique. Easy-to-guess passwords can be hacked and used for unauthorised access in a matter of seconds. Also, don’t send passwords in plain text via email, and make certain to secure any data that contains confidential or private information.