It is crucial to establish a security strategy for data to keep up-to-date with latest regulations and best practices. The implementation of a comprehensive plan in place will increase confidence among employees and customers, while helping you avoid costly fines for noncompliance.
A reliable data protection plan starts with a comprehensive inventory of your organization’s information. This allows you to categorize information by kind, location and accessibility. Certain kinds of information, such as PHI (personal health information) as well as financial or card details, are more sensitive than other kinds. Then, you can decide on security measures according to the importance and sensitivity of the information.
Also, identify who has access to specific information. This includes employees at branch offices, contractors that support your network as well as those working remotely using equipment like digital copiers, inventory scanners and smartphones. Consider limiting access to only what is needed for their job, for example, keeping credit card information on file only when it is needed.
Be sure that all of your facilities are equipped with cameras that have night vision and motion sensors to detect unauthorized entry into archives, file servers or backups. This can also be helpful in identifying those who take photos of whiteboards or monitors which contain sensitive information, as well as in identifying employees who haven’t properly logged out.
It’s also crucial to communicate your company’s policies and procedures to everyone in the company. Instruct your employees to spot cybersecurity threats, including phishing scams that target passwords, and encourage them to report any suspicious behavior.