Cloud storage has become big news, with almost 60% of global companies storing customer-sensitive data in the public cloud. However, the scary reality is that this data, held by businesses just like yours, is being targeted by cyber-criminals every day. While many businesses are well-prepared for such attacks to their data storage, an alarming amount still aren’t. Even global corporations like Sony, Target, and Apple have been compromised by cloud security breaches.
The key when using the cloud is to keep up-to-date, well-informed and to use all the best tools and tips available to your business. Hopefully, your business has data security policies and plans in place. But why stop there? We’re here to give you 5 expert tips that often get forgotten to go one step further with your security.
1. Create a suitable password, then change it
Cyber Streetwise suggest #use3words and #thinkrandom when it comes to creating passwords. Different accounts require different passwords, so that if a cyber-criminal was lucky enough to guess one password, they don’t have access to all your accounts online. Once you’ve created a suitable password, don’t stick to it. Change passwords regularly, making sure passwords to the most sensitive accounts are being changed weekly.
2. Don’t store unnecessary data
Don’t keep hold of data that has no longer has any value to your business, if it’s acceptable to do so. The less sensitive data you hold, the less a thief has available to steal. Set aside time to go through older data and bin anything that your business has no use for. Also, don’t allow employees to store data on removable devices, such as USB memory sticks or external hard drives, if they do not need to add or remove data as part of their job.
3. Do everything through an encrypted connection
… and make sure all files are encrypted. Ensure that you’re always sending your business’s data, regardless of its value and significance, through an encrypted connection to a trusted recipient. Use a tool that will create a secure environment for you to exchange data, like our data exchange tool MX. It offers a fast and easy to use encrypted 256 bit end-to-end connection. No installation needed – just an Internet browser and a reliable connection.
4. Keep track of activity and accountability
Worryingly, only 43% of respondents in a cloud security survey said their organisations have clearly defined roles and accountability for safeguarding confidential data in the cloud. Lack of accountability shouldn’t be an excuse for compromised business data. Ensure a non-negotiable IT policy is set up for the entire company to adhere to (see herefor more information on this), which will explain the consequences of any accountability and responsibility issues. Use software that can track activity and log access history for greater security when exchanging data in the cloud – MX has a fully-fledged audit trail system built in which allows you to view and download all transaction history when you need to.
5. Limit access to highly sensitive files
Without defined roles and the correct accountability, there’s a greater risk of incorrectly granted access to your data, which can have catastrophic consequences. Limit access to sensitive data to the minimum number of users, and for a specific amount of time, whether that’s between colleagues in the office or external customers and suppliers. MXis packed with incredibly useful features to ensure access is minimised including: ability to revoke, 1 click reporting exports and a complete, traceable audit history. Be sure to utilise our fast, easy and secure data exchange software to ensure your data is securely exchanged online throughout the world.
Look after your security solutions and they’ll look after your business. Why not trial MX today with a no obligation 30 day free trial and see how easy it makes exchanging data within your business?