Being competitive in the 21 st century requires a business to stay on the cutting edge of technology. For years, companies all over the world have used customer data to make important decisions about the direction they should take.
The main thing you need to be concerned with when collecting and storing data is keeping it out of the hands of cyber-criminals. A recent poll shows that 60 percent of business owners realize that cyber-attacks are getting more sophisticated and complex with each passing year.
Combating these attacks will require you to implement the use of tools like database activity monitoring and auditing software.
The following are some of the most common data security mistakes you need to work hard to avoid.
1. Don’t Try to Chase Technology Trends
While being on the cutting edge of technology is important, you need to avoid letting this desire to stay “in the know” get in the way of sound data security practices. The most effective security tools on the market today such as encryption or key management have not changed much over the years. Anytime you are presented with a sales pitch about how a program will be the “silver bullet” to end your security woes, be wary.
Often times, these claims will be based on fiction. Instead of trying to reinvent the wheel when it comes to data security, you need to think about sticking with what works.
2. Be Mindful of How You Are Storing DataIn order for your security infrastructure to work properly, all of the information that you collect will need to be able to communicate with the various parts of your system. The biggest mistake most businesses make when it comes to storing is having a standalone container for each IT component they have. While this may seem like a great way to avoid breaches, it can actually create more problems for your infrastructure in the long run.
Creating a top-down network security system that takes into account all of your data is a much better option. Not only will this keep your system more secure, but it will also allow you to see the big picture when it comes to the data you have collected.
3. Bare Minimum Data Security Can Be Highly IneffectiveSaving money is something most business owners are extremely passionate about. In some instances, the desire you have to save money may actually get in the way of sound data security practices. Some business owners try to do the bare minimum when it comes to data security, which usually leads to breaches.
Instead of trying to skimp on the quality and scope of your data security to save money, you need to be more concerned with putting a system in place that works. If you are unsure about what type of data security tools you need, you can consult with an IT security professional to get a bit of guidance.
4. Failing to Test the Security Measures You Have in Place
Another mistake that most businesses make when it comes to data security is thinking they can set and forget the software they use. In reality, the security measures you have put in place to protect your data will need to be tested on a regular basis. This is the only way you can know if these measures are effective. If vulnerabilities are found during these tests, you need to work on getting them fixed immediately.
Establishing effective data security is an ongoing process. Getting professional help with this process can help you avoid making mistakes with your data.