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Introduction to Data Security and Breaches
Following a data security breach that caught Yahoo!, the search engine behemoth off guard and cost them $50 million in damages, data security has come under the spotlight. Both corporations and individuals desire to keep their data secure and that can be done with the right hardware and software. But sensitive information requires an extra layer of security and the right techniques for data storage can make a remarkable difference.
Separating Sensitive Information
One of the fastest ways for sensitive information to get into the wrong hands is by not separating it from general data. An incident involving the divulging of the personal information of cab drivers and 173 million cab rides drew attention to the importance of keeping sensitive information separate. Although the information was withdrawn, it wasn’t before it was hacked. This could have been prevented if the information that needed to go out was kept separate from the sensitive information.
Diversifying Storage Methods
For some, data storage for sensitive information is critical for the long term. This means that the loss of this information can be devastating. Simply making use of one data storage solution, it can increase the risk of loss. Instead, make use of both digital and physical data storage devices.
The digital storage options should have various security levels including encryption. Physical data storage devices are small enough to place in secure storage, such as a safe. Users should also encrypt the data before saving it onto the device to add that extra layer of security.
Selecting Trusted Storage Providers
Secure data storage is not only about the potential loss of information but also the other losses related to the release of the information. The city of Atlanta spent $2.6 million to secure data after a ransomware attack. No matter how big or small the information that needs to be secured, it’s imperative to follow the right data protocols but more importantly, that the right product provider is used to provide this storage.
Data storage locations such as Google Drive and Dropbox are infamous for the number of hacking attempts. Choosing the right storage option will largely depend on the potential for loss should that information become compromised.
Conclusion
Choosing the right data storage options will depend on the information that needs to be stored. Sensitive information will require additional layers of security.
