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.
