How to Prevent a Data Breach

Research shows a 93% rise in the exposure of information through online data leakage attacks in 2020 (Imperva). This unprecedented increase happened at a time when more organisations relied on IT systems and security than ever before.

Researchers found that 883,865 data leaks were reported at the start of last year. By December 2020, the number had rocketed to 1.7 million. Imperva states that this figure continues to grow. In the healthcare industry alone, the single-day peak for data leakage attacks in early January 2021 – 9,008 – is higher than any day in 2020.

“Data security should never be an afterthought – but sadly it often is, particularly when organisations prioritise speed over security. The rush to maintain business continuity in 2020 has accelerated change at such a pace that huge gaps now exist in process and protection around data,” says Chris Waynforth, AVP Northern Europe at Imperva.

With this worrying trend in mind, what can you do to protect your organisation against such attacks?

4 Ways to Prevent a Data Breach

1. Manage Passwords Safely

Encouraging team members to create strong passwords that are changed regularly (every 90 days) will help to keep your data safe. For more tips, read our blog about safe passwords.

2. Identify Sensitive and Old Data

Data with no value but high liability (such as old customer records or financial data) should be identified for possible deletion. For current critical information, limiting access restricts the number of people who may be vulnerable to clicking a malicious link. Secure backup gives you peace of mind that your important data is safe

3. Training and Support

Training helps employees to recognise which emails may be suspicious and therefore treated with caution. IT support can help employees to work through the necessary steps, and to understand company policy should a breach be identified.

4. Keep Software Updated

Software should be kept current with the latest updates whenever available. UK Tech News explains: “Out of date software makes your network vulnerable to risk. This is an easy and cost-effective way to strengthen your network and pre-emptively stop attacks. This also applies to antivirus and anti-malware software.”

“It’s important to identify and manage potential risks and protect your data,” says Eric Hughes of EMH Technology. “Once issues have been identified, it’s usually fairly straightforward to manage and rectify the situation.”

Would you like to discuss your company’s online security and/or backup provision?

Contact the friendly experts at EMH Technology for an initial discussion without obligation.