Information
has never been easier to obtain or access. The Internet, Social Media, Cloud
Computing, online analytics, and many more technologies we use have opened
doors heretofore closed.
The
SEC recently ruled that companies seeking private investments are allowed to
advertise and they can use social media to announce key information. These
decisions can be double-edged swords.
While reducing the costs associated with obtaining funding, it also
provides the risk of putting to much information into the hands of everyone. On
line security is not infallible as we have seen through many examples in the
press. A great deal of time could be diverted to fixing security issues with
your information, and it may be too-little-too-late. You cannot unring a bell.
You
also have no control over social media’s security. The best you can do is use
complex passwords and control physical access of employees who use these
accounts.
So
how do you balance getting work done and protecting your information? A well planned
and implemented strategy is needed.
While
not insuring safety, using information collected and balancing compliance with
laws, rules, regulations, agreements, etc., with internal policies is a
critical element for a viable business.
Effective
compliance can be assisted by using a systemic understanding of the issues,
seeking methods that can help with multiple needs, and applying automation
where possible, to reduce costs.
In
business, as with much of life, it often becomes necessary to share critical
information with others. But we should not assume that everyone treats this
information with the same sense of privacy as you do. So be sure to tell each
person what you expect and the potential threats if the information is misused,
and practice good governance processes to provide an added level of security.
The
answers here cannot be left to technologies or laws. It is up to you to protect
your information. In fact, while it may be extreme, it was recently reported
that the Russian Government placed a large order for “old” typewriters as on
line security for some information is was deemed insufficient.
Reminder:
SCORE Counselors have signed confidentiality agreements to protect your
information.
How
are you handling this?
Visit
us at: www.scoresouthflorida.net
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