As remote working becomes more normalized in this pandemic situation, cybersecurity among businesses around the world is most likely at risk. With companies’ lack of surveillance and restrictions to remote workers, it is necessary to make data loss prevention a business’ number one priority.
COMMON CAUSES OF DATA LOSS
No company wants to experience any kind of trouble especially when it is something that can be prevented in the first place. Here are four of the most common causes of data loss that every company should watch out for:
Malware
Malware (short term for malicious software) is basically any software designed by hackers and cyber attackers to cause great damage to a computer, its data and systems, or to gain unauthorized access to a protected network. Viruses, worms, ransomware, and trojan horses are just some of the common types of malware that exist. Without reliable data security, computer systems can be easily corrupted or accessed by cyber hackers.
Human error
Humans are naturally fallible. Unlike robots, we make mistakes. In fact, multiple studies implicate human error as a main cause of data loss in most cases. Manifested by simply misplacing a hard drive, unintentional deletion or overwriting texts and files, or even just falling into baits set up by phishing sites; these little slip-ups can definitely cause businesses to suffer depending on the gravity of the damage inflicted.
Disasters
Natural disasters, just like human errors, are inevitable. These may occur in the forms of fire, flood, power outage, or earthquake. Without a proper disaster recovery plan, businesses might permanently lose all of their stored data in just a snap. The rate of businesses losing their data due to disasters may not be as high compared to cyber attacks and human error, but it is essential for every company to establish preventive measures as much as possible.
Theft
Do you know that one laptop is stolen every 53 seconds? A huge fraction of this is reportedly done in public places such as hotels, airports, cars/public utility vehicles, and restaurants, where laptops are often left unattended. Just as more and more coffee shops open to serve as conducive spaces for remote employees to work, theft and burglary cases are also more likely to increase – putting businesses’ precious data and confidential information at risk.
HOW TO PREVENT DATA LOSS IN BUSINESSES
Cliche as it may seem, prevention is always better than cure. Now that you are fully aware of the risks, it is time for you to know how to prevent data loss in the future:
Install an antivirus and firewall
Remember that malware can be easily installed by accidentally clicking baits that lead to phishing sites. That’s why having a firewall is very important, as it prevents malicious sites from getting into your private network as well as your computer. Having an antivirus, on the other hand, can remove all of the corrupt files and software that already exist in your network and device. This way you won’t have to worry much about getting your system hacked, or having your files corrupted.
Back everything up
Saving files in a separate storage disk or hard drive can also save you in the future. Store backup devices in secure, easy-to-access places such as drawers, and waterproof containers to preserve them in case of disasters or unexpected coffee spills. You can also consider saving files in a cloud for an extra storage option.
Limit access to files
Information leaked is information stolen. Allowing people to access your company’s data is also increasing the risk of having your data stolen from you. Make sure to limit people’s access by first setting up passwords in your company’s laptops and computer sets, and then having additional restrictions on specific files to prevent insider threats. This could be very useful in case a company laptop gets stolen. It is also necessary to make your workers sign a non-disclosure agreement to prevent data leaks.
Come up with a disaster recovery plan
It’s good to have backup storage prepared during disasters but the best way to secure your files against natural occurrences is to deal with the root cause itself. Can your building withstand strong earthquakes? Do you have alternative power sources in case a power outage occurs? It is important that you come up with a comprehensive disaster recovery plan and delegate people to take charge and oversee company preparedness so you won’t have to worry much once these things happen.
Work with a reputable IT security expert
You can never go wrong when working with experts. These people know everything about securing your data, recognizing flaws, and seeing through potential issues you might have overlooked in your system. Don’t settle for less and hire experts if you still haven’t.
IMPORTANCE OF DATA LOSS PREVENTION IN BUSINESS
Data is essential for any company (big and small) to keep the business afloat. From performing administrative and accounting tasks to generating revenues, businesses heavily rely on data for it to fully function. Just compare it to how the blood works inside the human body; our blood is made up of various cells that work systematically in order for all our other body parts to function. A huge loss could possibly lead to death. This goes the same with data in businesses. A small blunder can cause excessive damage that may take a long time to recover from, or worse – lead to bankruptcy and business closure. Take prevention into your hands today!
