In a world where personal data is an extremely valuable commodity, protecting that data is a top concern for both individuals as well as companies of all sizes. One breach could expose customers to identity theft, financial damage or even lawsuits. Fortunately, there are many methods that can be employed to protect personal information and help prevent hacking and theft.

TAKE STOCK

Take stock of the amount of sensitive data your company holds in computer files and on servers, and make a plan to protect it only for as long as is necessary. This may include taking inventory of devices that record personal information, including PIN pads and security cameras and also identifying computer connections to external sources, such as the internet, computers employed by service providers to help support your network or digital copiers.

SCALE DOWN

Limit access to sensitive information only to discover here those who need it. This minimizes the chance of an insider attack or loss to hackers. Pro tip: Use the principle of least privilege by giving new accounts access to the lowest level to sensitive data, and increasing this privilege only as they grow in seniority or job necessity.

LOCK IT

Be sure that your passwords are secure, complicated and unique. Passwords that are easy to guess can be hacked and used for an unauthorised access within a matter of minutes. Don't send passwords via email in plain text and make sure that all files are encrypted to protect sensitive or private information.