8 Ways to Protect Consumer Data

If you are on the Internet, chances are that you leave behind a trail of personal data. An abundance of information about you is available online, from your credit card numbers to your social security number. It is not just possible but very likely that someone could steal this sensitive information and use it for illicit purposes, like committing fraud or identity theft.

Organizations with consumer data are responsible for protecting it, and businesses that handle sensitive information need to practice good security. The Federal Trade Commission has issued new guidelines for consumer data organizations. Here are eight ways to help you protect consumer information.

1. Encrypt Data

Encryption is common among organizations that handle money, personally identifiable information, and other sensitive data. Even if you are unsure of the security of your data, it is always best to encrypt it to prevent unauthorized access. For example, passwords should be encrypted with a password management system, and credit card records should be encrypted with a one-way encryption algorithm such as Secure Sockets Layer (SSL).

2. Use Dedicated Servers

If possible, keep your consumer information on a dedicated computer with a firewall restricting access to authorized persons. This is an important precaution because you do not want other users on the same computer to access your sensitive data by accident. Organizations that handle consumer data should also maintain backup copies of the information in case malfunctioning hardware or software causes it to become inaccessible.

3. Initiate Cyber Security Augmentation Project

Suppose you are unsure what information you need to protect and are having difficulty keeping up with the latest security technology. In that case, hiring a professional company to perform an exhaustive review of your data systems may be a good idea. They can tell you what information is likely to be most vulnerable and recommend the best ways for you to keep your consumer data protected. Cyber security staff augmentation can help you develop a cost-effective plan to protect your consumer data.

4. Set Up Proper Security Measures

Even if you do not have dedicated servers or numerous computers, you can still protect your consumer information by setting up proper security measures on your computers. For example, never leave your computer unattended when accessing the Internet and always keep it password protected. Be sure to keep your antivirus software up to date, and only use reputable applications for handling consumer financial data and other sensitive information.

5. Conduct Internal Security Audits

Organizations with consumer data need to keep on top of security issues. If they fail to conduct regular audits, they could leave themselves vulnerable to hackers who may try to steal sensitive information from their systems. Your IT staff must perform regular computer penetration testing and vulnerability assessments so you can be sure the data you handle is secure.

6. Restrict Unauthorized Access

Even if you do everything else correctly, it is still possible to be compromised by unauthorized access. For example, suppose someone like a family member or friend who is not authorized to use your computer browses the Internet. In that case, they can accidentally download malware that allows a hacker to remotely access your computer and steal sensitive information like passwords. If you give someone an authorized username and password, make sure that the person can only have access to what they need.

Your organization's IT staff should be able to control all access to consumer data. They should also have a secure method for only authorized personnel to access the data. This way, no one can easily use a stolen password to gain unauthorized access.

7. Shred Papers with Sensitive Data

It is not just the computer itself that needs to be secure. You should carefully protect the papers you use to store sensitive information. For example, credit card numbers and other sensitive data should never be left on sticky notes or in any other easily readable form. In addition, you should shred confidential documents and receipts in a way that renders them unreadable. This includes shredding paper into tiny pieces and burning it.

8. Use Facial Recognition Software or Fingerprints

Biometric authentication, like fingerprints and facial recognition software, can be used to verify the identity of individuals accessing your systems. This can be a very effective way to protect sensitive information because it prevents unauthorized access.

You should also use advanced features like biometric authentication for some of your more sensitive data, including credit card information, which thieves often seek. Other places where you want to use biometric authentication include the keypad on your office door and restricted areas in your building where employees are not supposed to go.

Conclusion

Consumer data is a valuable commodity, and people worldwide are working hard to steal it. It is best to take precautions to prevent unauthorized access, and cyber security staff augmentation can help you develop a cost-effective plan for protecting your consumer data.