In an age where personal information has become an invaluable commodity security is an important concern for both individuals and companies of all sizes. A single breach can expose clients to financial loss, identity theft or even lawsuits. There are a variety of methods that can be employed to protect personal information and help prevent hacking and theft.
TAKE STOCK
Make a plan for storing sensitive data in your business’s computers and files only in the time required. This may include taking inventory of devices that record personal information, like PIN pads and security cameras as well as identifying computer connections to external sources such as the internet or computers that are used by service providers to support your network or digital copiers.
SCALE DOWN
Limit access to sensitive information to only those who require it. This lowers the risk of an insider attack or loss to hackers. Pro click here for more tip: Apply a principle called least privilege. Provide new accounts with the lowest access level to sensitive data. Then increase the privileges as the account grows in rank or the job requirement increases.
LOCK IT
Make sure your passwords are strong, complex, and unique. Passwords that are easy to guess can be hacked in a matter seconds and used to gain unauthorized access. Also, avoid sending passwords in plain text through e-mail and be certain to secure any files that contain private or confidential information.