In a world where personal information is a valuable commodity, protecting that data is a major concern for both individuals as well as companies of all sizes. A single breach can put customers at risk of identity theft or other financial damage and expose companies to penalties, reputational harm, and even lawsuits. There are a myriad of methods to protect personal information and prevent hacking and theft.
TAKE STOCK
Create a plan to store sensitive information in your business’s computers and files only for in the time essential. This could include taking inventory of devices that record personal information, like PIN pads and security cameras as well as the identification of computer connections to external sources like the internet or the computers that are used by service providers to support your network or digital copiers.
SCALE DOWN
Limit access to sensitive information only to those who need it. This decreases the chance of insider threats or losses from hackers. Pro tip: Apply the principle of least privilege. New accounts should be given the lowest level of access to sensitive information and then increase this privilege as the account gains seniority websites or the requirement for employment increases.
THEN LOCK IT
Be sure that your passwords are strong, complex and unique. Simple passwords can be hacked, and used for unauthorised access in just a few seconds. Don’t send passwords in plain text through email and be sure to encrypt any document that contains private or confidential information.
