Data interception is obstruction of data transmission. Making your business and its data more secure gives you more peace of mind and reinforces your clients’ confidence in your company.
Data interception is obstruction of data transmission. Anything that interferes with the transmission of data from device to device and alters the data or message is a big part of data interception. It’s just one of the many types of cyber attacks that we need to look out for with both our professional and personal data. Having your company’s data tampered with is something worth safeguarding against whether you’re working with teams remotely or in the office. So, what can you do to prevent your company from becoming the next victim of data interception? Here are some suggestions.
1. Identify Sensitive Data
It is very important to identify and categorize sensitive data. The more sensitive the data is deemed to be, the fewer the people that should have access to it. This is particularly helpful when you offer employees remote file access. It also means that certain files or data may not be accessible in certain instances. Being aware of data sensitivity ultimately leads to taking protective measures.
2. Strong Passwords and Limited Access
Use strong passwords to protect your data and change them regularly. This will make your data less likely to be breached. With strong passwords comes the responsibility of who has the passwords. Strong passwords are fortified when not everyone knows them. Be sure to only share passwords on a need to know basis.
3. Encryption
Encrypting your data should not be overlooked. End-to-end encryption is best when possible. This allows your data to be protected on your end as well as during its journey to its final destination. When both sides are encrypted and the traffic is also encrypted you greatly reduce the likelihood of ISP staff, hackers, and government interception.
4. Protect Your Network
Don’t allow everyone access to your network. When employees and clients join your network with their personal devices, you are risking your data security. Personal devices could be hosting malware or viruses that can put your data at risk. It helps to have a separate network that customers can use their personal devices on that won’t interfere with your cybersecurity.
5. Employee Training
Boost employee knowledge by offering training on data protection, privacy and other cybersecurity topics. When employees understand the importance of protecting company data and what they can do to minimize the risk of cyber attacks, they are much more likely to take data interception more seriously. The training can be part of the hiring and on-boarding process or it could be more like a periodical workshop.
6. Software
Implement quality anti-spyware and anti-virus software. The right software can make it more difficult for hackers to intercept your data, so make sure that your business is not an easy target. Free options aren’t the best for a business, so be sure to do some research into which will be best for your situation.
Making your business and its data more secure gives you more peace of mind and reinforces your clients’ confidence in your company. And if you find that safeguarding your data is too much for you to handle, there are people for that. Hire someone to do it right.
