Here’s the list of Top 9 Data Security Risks. I thought to rank them by them causing maximum damage.
Risk 1: Access to data by unauthorized people
§ Simple passwords should be replaced by stronger, multi-factor
authentication passwords.
§ Password policy should be transparent throughout all the logins
required. Passwords should be between 6-15 long, must
include Upper case, lower case, Number and 1 special character.
Risk 2: Modification of data, by mistake or knowingly
§ Data integrity is the key to the success of any organization.
§ All data sent over the internet should be send using strong encryption
Risk 3: Corruption of data due to malware infections
§ Growth in internet usage has also seen the growth in malware
infections which significantly contribute to data corruption.
§ Files should always be downloaded from reliable sources.
Risk 4: Internet Connectivity failure
§ Many Organizations these days have several applications over
the Internet, in such a situation failure of Internet can lead to
data loss.
§ Backup service provider should be if in case primary fails
Risk 5: Accidental data deletion
§ Backup should be taken regularly and should be done automatically
with option to restore data from multiple versions
§ Several companies lack well-conceived data recovery strategies
had to bear both financial as well as legal losses.
Risk 6: Loss of data due to Software failures
§ Pirated copies of software should not be bought even though
these copies can be purchased at a lesser price.
§ Misconfiguration and incorrect software usage have created
several issues.
Risk 7: Improper rights assigning
§ Every program and every user of the system should operate using
the least set of privileges necessary to complete his job.
§ A unique ID and password should be given to each user. Users
should be given read only access to the applications present.
Risk 8: Unauthorized Physical access to laptops, desktops by unauthorized people
§ Prevent unauthorized entries into the premises and other
sensitive areas.
§ Visitor control procedures should be employed to restrict the freedom
by which a visitor can access the premises.
Risk 9: Fire
§ Heat-generating equipments such as copiers, work processors, coffee
makers and hot plates should be kept away from anything that might
catch fire.
§ Sprinklers and fire/smoke detectors should be installed in storage
areas.
Computer sharing can be a threat to data security. This is a very common practice commonly taken for granted. If you can’t avoid sharing a computer, what you can do is have a private account which will contain all your personal data. Also, have a back-up storage so that, if worse comes to worst, you still have your files with you. Clearing your browsing history would also be beneficial, especially when you have entered important information such as credit card numbers and account passwords.
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