Protect Your Company’s Data in 2015
Posted March 13th, 2015
What are the consequences of even a modest data loss?
- Massive loss of revenue
- Infringement on intellectual property
- Destruction of consumer confidence
- Stiff regulatory fines and penalties
That is to name just a few. And with the frequency and severity of data breaches on the rise, and some of the world’s largest companies proving vulnerable, now is clearly the time to take the issue seriously. Below we’ve outlined some basic strategies that all companies can use to keep their most valuable asset safe in 2015.
Establish Access Controls
Your company relies on a variety of different types of data – consumer profiles, trade secrets, financial information – which is stored throughout your network and on multiple devices. It’s crucial to decide who can access what data through what means, and then set up controls so that you can restrict and monitor access.
Automate Your Data Backup
The only way to ensure that you never lose a single file in the wake of a data loss is to automate your backup process. Make sure that all your data, not just your essential data, is automatically being backed up on a regular schedule, and being sent to a secure storage space.
Install Firewall Protections
Motivated hackers are both sophisticated and tenacious, which is why you need to take a proactive approach to fending off viruses, malware, and cyber attacks. Set up a strong firewall between your data and the network, and give someone in the know the responsibility of updating and improving the firewall on a regular basis.
Crackdown on BYOD
Employees are increasingly using their own laptops, tablets, and phones for work. Unfortunately, this is one of the major causes of data issues. Step one is understanding the scope of the problem. Step two is establishing policies, procedures, and protections that guide how employees can use their own devices in the workplace.
Secure the Cloud
Cloud computing is both a cost-effective and convenient solution, and a major vulnerability. If your company utilizes the cloud to any extent you need to create policies surrounding its use and regularly audit how well those policies are working. You should also carefully vet the security of any cloud provider before enlisting their services.
Securing your company’s data is a time and labor intensive process, but one you can’t afford to neglect or ignore. If you need IT professionals to help you protect your company, rely on staffing support from Bayside Solutions.
