The protection of sensitive information has always been a topic of interest for those involved in managing critical business information. Choosing to store data in an electronic format and on a network that can be accessed by anyone, should they hold the keys, can be as risky as it is convenient. It is for this reason that data security, encryption and secure archiving services surfaced and evolved into what they are today.
The recent news from around the world that governments and large organisations are collecting and using personal information for intelligence purposes has shone a spotlight on the considerable importance of data security.
Current legislation demands we all take our data security very seriously. The newly introduced Protection of Personal Information act will impose harsh penalties on local organisations found guilty of misusing or improperly safeguarding information that is relevant to business operations.
The best approach towards compliance is a cautious one. Local organisations have been given twelve months to closely review current IT systems for potential shortfalls or deficiencies.
E-mail is a hugely popular business tool which should be the first port of call for organisations to review. Aside from the actual communications it carries, users also share attachments. Without the right technology, checks and balances it can be a risk that needs to be identified and alleviated.
In the absence of a reliable archive and security system it is all too easy for internal staff, intentionally or accidentally, to leak critical information to an external or unauthorised user, or send it over an unsecured network. An unsecured e-mail platform provides little protection against data being at risk while in transit if it is not encrypted, or when it is at rest sitting on a desktop or on a corporate file share or email archive.
Mobility is also a challenge. The rise of the mobile knowledge worker has precipitated a demand in handsets, tablets and laptops that meet the needs of each individual. This means in turn that the same data is also sitting on multiple devices. These devices are prone to being lost or stolen. If the data stored on them is not closely managed, centrally monitored and protected this becomes a significant risk.
For more information contact Mimecast SA, +27 (0)11 555 5461, www.mimecast.co.za
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