Is your data a disaster waiting to happen?

Why data storage and security is crucial for every organisation.

 As the world becomes more and more digital, data becomes more and more important. Organisations that capture relevant information can build a valuable, data-driven platform for just about everything - from customer service through to marketing and product development.

But if data is so valuable – why do many companies neglect its storage and security?

What could go wrong? The AA Traveller example.

Four years ago, AA Traveller took down a website that was no longer being used, but they failed to delete it. The problem was, it held customer information for hundreds of thousands of customers. When cybercriminals hacked the site, AA Traveller was forced to warn (and apologise to) customers for not protecting their data. The result – reputational damage and customers loss of confidence.

How to keep data safe.

First step, companies should only collect the data they actually need. Then should also think about a retention schedule, which sets out how long the data will be kept for. Companies get into serious trouble when they don't know what data they have or where it is.

What do you have and where is it?

You’d think this was IT 101 – but many companies don’t know where their data is stored. Especially in large organisations where different departments are saving data in different locations, using different methods. Someone stealing your data could be the last of your worries, when there’s potential for your data to get lost.

Are you giving away too much access?

The golden rule is - only give people the access they need to do their job. Otherwise, you run the risk of overly permissive access being abused. Again, the risk of data breach is not coming from an external threat – but from within the organisation, i.e. human error. But with the right training and access restrictions, human error can be minimised.

Is it too late to change?

When faced with data storage issues, it’s easy for companies to put their head in sand. Yes, changing policies, and training staff requires time and money, but the consequences could far outweigh the costs.

Best practice starts at the top.

In short, leaders need to set an example. Directors and boards are becoming more aware of the implications of data storage, and they need to pass on these priorities to senior leadership. Without this top level ‘buy-in’, there is very little chance other employees will make the effort to change.

The moral of the story….good data management can deliver huge benefits, but it can all fall apart if it’s not handled with care.

Need advice on managing your company data?

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