In a world where personal data is an extremely valuable resource, securing this data is a major concern for both individuals and companies of all sizes. A single breach could put customers at risk of identity theft, as well as other financial damage and could expose businesses to penalties, reputational harm and even lawsuits. There are many ways to safeguard personal information and prevent hacking.
TAKE STOCK
Create a plan to store sensitive information in your company’s computers and files only for when it is necessary. This could involve taking inventory of devices that store personal information, like PIN pads and security cameras and identifying connections to external sources like the internet and computers used by service providers to help support your network, or digital copiers.
SCALE DOWN
Limit access to sensitive information to those who require it. This reduces the risk of an insider attack or hacker loss. Pro tip: Follow a principle called least privilege. Give new accounts the lowest access level to sensitive data. Increase this privilege as the account grows in seniority or the job requirement grows.
It is locked. IT
Be sure that your passwords are secure, complex, and unique. Passwords that are easy to guess can be hacked, and used for unauthorised access in a matter of seconds. Do not send passwords via email in plain text and secure all files that contain sensitive or private information.
