Organizations need to do more to prevent themselves from experiencing data breaches, as many people realise that not enough is currently being done.
This according to a new report from the Internet Society, which found that 59% of users would be reluctant to do business with an enterprise that had been compromised. The paper was keen to highlight how damaging a data breach can be. Not only does it negatively affect the organization that has been attacked, it also impacts on its employees and consumers. Moreover, it damages the way people think about technology. As “the ultimate casualty is trust in the internet”. Without trust, those online are less likely to entrust their personal information to the internet, and those who are not yet online will have a reason to stay offline.
One of the most interesting points raised by the paper concerns the seeming lack of investment from businesses in information security. While many appreciate the seriousness of data breaches, organizations are “not doing everything they could to prevent” them from happening.
Legislation is already going in the direction of making organizations more accountable for data breaches, making information security a priority and increasing transparency around security incidents around the world.
Up-to-date security systems, usable security, and awareness on how to deal with threats and social engineering are needed for reducing the opportunities for data breaches and device compromise. As the report shows that as much as 93% of all breaches could have been avoided if the correct measures were put in place.
ESET Ireland offers some good advice on data breaches in “The 3 Causes of Data Breaches — and How to Prevent Them”.
