Data Security Archives - Tech Research Online Knowledge Base for IT Pros Tue, 31 Oct 2023 10:14:55 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.2.5 https://techresearchonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/full-black-d_favicon-70-70.png Data Security Archives - Tech Research Online 32 32 Top 10 Strategies to Ensure GDPR Compliance Across Industries https://techresearchonline.com/blog/gdpr-compliance-strategies/ https://techresearchonline.com/blog/gdpr-compliance-strategies/#respond Tue, 31 Oct 2023 10:14:55 +0000 https://techresearchonline.com/?p=409612 In May 2018, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) took effect in the European Union. This law was enacted to curb widespread data breaches that exposed personal data, putting the security and trust of citizens at risk. With non-compliance fines exceeding €20 million, the GDPR is perhaps the most strict data privacy protection law in the world. GDPR provisions apply to all industries as long as a company collects and processes personal data from residents of the European Union. It gives EU residents control of their personal data. Companies that collect such data must do so in accordance with the regulations while respecting the right of data owners to control their data. They must also protect private data from exploitation, misuse, and compromise. 10 Strategies for Boosting GDPR Compliance in Every Industry Below are 10 easy strategies to help your company become GDPR-compliant in 2024: 1. Conduct a Personal Data Audit The first strategy that companies can use to ensure GDPR compliance across industries in 2024 is auditing the personal data. The audit should identify the nature of private data the companies hold, the source and who it’s shared with. GDPR regulations place responsibilities on companies to adhere to data …

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In May 2018, the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) took effect in the European Union. This law was enacted to curb widespread data breaches that exposed personal data, putting the security and trust of citizens at risk. With non-compliance fines exceeding €20 million, the GDPR is perhaps the most strict data privacy protection law in the world.
GDPR provisions apply to all industries as long as a company collects and processes personal data from residents of the European Union. It gives EU residents control of their personal data. Companies that collect such data must do so in accordance with the regulations while respecting the right of data owners to control their data. They must also protect private data from exploitation, misuse, and compromise.

10 Strategies for Boosting GDPR Compliance in Every Industry

Below are 10 easy strategies to help your company become GDPR-compliant in 2024:

1. Conduct a Personal Data Audit

The first strategy that companies can use to ensure GDPR compliance across industries in 2024 is auditing the personal data. The audit should identify the nature of private data the companies hold, the source and who it’s shared with.
GDPR regulations place responsibilities on companies to adhere to data protection principles that include putting in place effective procedures and policies. For example, companies must inform their partners of any data anomalies and inaccuracies they note in the data they share for purposes of making corrections.

2. Document Legal Reasons for Processing Personal Data

Another GDPR compliance strategy is to change corporate data privacy rights based on legal reasons for collecting and processing personal data. For instance, where companies use consent as their legal basis, regulators can demand deletion of the data. To avoid this, identifying and documenting legal reasons for collecting and processing personal data will be critical. Companies must also understand the different kinds of data processing they conduct.

3. Commission a Data Protection Impact Assessment

This assessment helps in identifying and mitigating risks relating to collection and processing of personal data. Understanding the gaps and risks enables you to craft relevant policies and take the right security measures.

4. Review the Privacy Policy

GDPR compliance requires companies to guarantee data owners or subjects of their personal data rights. In 2024, companies can review their privacy policies to ensure that website visitors and customers can:
  • Ask them to delete their personal data
  • Deny permission to process their data
  • Ask and receive all the details a company collect about them
  • Rectify and update inaccurate or incomplete information
  • Place restrictions on how the company uses their data
  • Get a copy of the personal data the company holds and stores
  • Ask for information on how the company uses their personal data

5. Review Consent Procedures

GDPR compliance requires companies to be more transparent in the way they collect, process and use personally identifiable information. In 2024, companies can comply with this requirement by reviewing their consent procedure. They can align their procedures to GDPR requirements by demonstrating that they:
  • Inform people about collection of personal data in advance
  • Give them a valid reason for collecting their data
  • Limit data collection to the specified reason
  • Seek consent to process data from data owners through opt-ins or check boxes
  • Specify the duration of data storage
  • Inform their audience of changes to the data collection process

6. Improve Data Security

Under the GDPR compliance requirements, the responsibility to protect private data from exploitation, misuse, and compromise lies with data collectors and processors. In 2024, companies can comply with this requirement by adopting better cybersecurity solutions. These include:
  • Protecting networks with VPNs, firewalls and layered approaches
  • Securing data through the use of up-to-date antivirus, data backups, encryptions, and tokenization
  • Implementing insider risk management tactics like monitoring employees, analyzing user and entity behavior and tracking third-party activities
  • Managing access controls through multi-factor authentication, identity management and private access

7. Get a Designated Data Protection Officer (DPO)

Another strategy that will ensure GDPR compliance in the business world is having a designated officer to handle data protection issues within companies. The DPO function can be outsourced or hired in-house to ensure a company complies with the IT requirements in the GDPR. The key roles of a DPO is to create awareness about GDPR requirements, support data protection impact assessments, monitor GDPR compliance, and report risks relating to data breach.

8. Document GDPR Compliance Procedures

Part of GDPR compliance is your ability to demonstrate adherence to the regulation and provide evidence that data processing complies to legal and security requirements. An effective way to do this is to document internal compliance processes, including how you secure personal data. Some of the essential documentation to include in your documentation are:
  • Details of data protection officer and controllers
  • Descriptions of the administrative and technical data security measures you implement
  • Flow of data in your company
  • Results of the data protection impact assessment

9. Set Up Data Breach Procedures

Personal data breaches like identity theft that are likely to harm data subjects must be reported as soon as they occur. This GDPR requirement means that companies must establish clear processes of detecting, reporting and probing data breaches. It’s important to note that failing to report data breaches can attract multiple fines under the GDPR.

10. Create GDPR Awareness

Sensitize employees and decision makers about GDPR regulations and data security practices. This awareness can enhance their cooperation and mobilize resources (financial, human resources, and technical) necessary for GDPR compliance. It would also help them to understand the impact of non-compliance to the company.

Conclusion

For many companies, complying with the GDPR can feel overwhelming. But this doesn’t have to be the case. Legal adherence can become easier for your company if you focus on implementing the GDPR compliance practices and strategies discussed above.

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Reddit’s 80GB of Stolen Data Can Get Leaked by Hackers From ALPHV/BlackCat https://techresearchonline.com/news/reddits-80gb-stolen-data-can-get-leaked-by-alphv-blackcat/ https://techresearchonline.com/news/reddits-80gb-stolen-data-can-get-leaked-by-alphv-blackcat/#respond Mon, 19 Jun 2023 15:30:45 +0000 https://techresearchonline.com/?p=400038 On a dark web blog, the Russia-linked (AlphV/Blackcat hacker) ransomware gang claims to have broken into the company’s data in February 2023. They’ve taken 80 gigabytes of compressed documents and internal data. It contains sensitive user information like usernames and passwords from Reddit. So far, the hacker group hasn’t shown any proof regarding the claim. According to them, Reddit did not attempt to determine what kind of data was stolen. Blackcat further mentioned that Reddit must pay $4.5 million and remove its recent price hikes for its API in exchange for data dealing.    A Bit of Background Behind Reddit’s Stolen Data  Reddit CTO Christopher Slowe, AKA Keysersosa said that their systems were hacked on 5th February 2023. Because of that, some internal documents and personnel data that contained sensitive user information from Reddit have been stolen by hackers during a “highly-targeted” breach of the company’s systems cyber security. Slowe continued by saying that the business had no evidence that passwords and other private user information had been stolen. Reddit did not provide any additional information regarding the hack or its perpetrators.    When the Drama & Culprits Unfolded  On 17 June, Blackcat posted an article regarding this incident. In the …

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On a dark web blog, the Russia-linked (AlphV/Blackcat hacker) ransomware gang claims to have broken into the company’s data in February 2023. They’ve taken 80 gigabytes of compressed documents and internal data. It contains sensitive user information like usernames and passwords from Reddit. So far, the hacker group hasn’t shown any proof regarding the claim. According to them, Reddit did not attempt to determine what kind of data was stolen. Blackcat further mentioned that Reddit must pay $4.5 million and remove its recent price hikes for its API in exchange for data dealing.  

 A Bit of Background Behind Reddit’s Stolen Data 

Reddit CTO Christopher Slowe, AKA Keysersosa said that their systems were hacked on 5th February 2023. Because of that, some internal documents and personnel data that contained sensitive user information from Reddit have been stolen by hackers during a “highly-targeted” breach of the company’s systems cyber security. Slowe continued by saying that the business had no evidence that passwords and other private user information had been stolen. Reddit did not provide any additional information regarding the hack or its perpetrators.   

When the Drama & Culprits Unfolded 

On 17 June, Blackcat posted an article regarding this incident. In the post titled The Reddit Files, Blackcat claims it contacted Reddit twice, on April 13 and June 16. But, they did not hear back.  

The post said, “We informed them through our initial email that we would hold off till their IPO to come out. But this feels like the ideal chance”. Further, “we are extremely convinced that Reddit will not pay any money for their data”.  

In the article, they demanded Reddit to pay $4.5 million and removed its recent price hikes for API in exchange for returning the data.  

Reddit Continues to Face the Heat of Controversy 

Reddit has seen several communities go black, effectively going down in protest of the way the site has been operating. This includes proposals to charge for access to its data. However, companies have announced that they will need an Application Programming Interface (API) to access the site’s data. And as Reddit stated back in April, this “premium access” is now quite expensive.   

How Will the API Access Change Affect Reddit users  

It is anticipated that the planned changes will effectively put an end to third-party Reddit programs like Apollo. This allow users to surf the website with a customizable interface.   

According to Apollo’s lone developer, Christian Selig, such apps would need to charge around $5 per user per month just to use the new Reddit premium access. Which sounds exorbitant, in all honesty. 

 Conclusion 

Strong cybersecurity safeguards are essential, and ransomware assaults are becoming a bigger concern. This comes as evidenced by the ransom demand from the BlackCat ransomware organization. The current issue over Reddit’s API pricing has also brought attention to the necessity of openness and cooperation between platform providers and developers. Organizations must take precautions to safeguard themselves and their users as the threat of cyberattacks increases. This entails making investments in cybersecurity safeguards, educating staff about best practices, and working with industry partners to exchange knowledge and best practices. 

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5 Types of Software that Safeguard your Data Security https://techresearchonline.com/blog/5-best-types-of-software-that-protect-your-data-security/ https://techresearchonline.com/blog/5-best-types-of-software-that-protect-your-data-security/#respond Fri, 09 Sep 2022 11:13:02 +0000 https://techresearchonline.com/?p=270187 As you know, there are many types of programs designed to protect your information. The most common type of software is a firewall and virus scanners. They are designed to keep hackers at bay and keep your files safe from malware. There are a few other types of tools that can assist in protecting your data including antivirus, anti-spam, and email protection services. Additionally, several free software programs are also available to safeguard your information from cyber attackers. What is data security? Data security is how we keep our files and computers safe from hackers. Cyber attackers get into your computer and steal information to sell on the black market or use it for personal financial gain. This can happen when you use your computer, access the internet, open an email, and more. As you can see, there are many methods that cyber attackers can use to get access to your files. You can reduce your risks by using the following types of tools. Top 5 types of software for data protection Our team has listed the top five types of security protection solutions that can protect your data as well as keep hackers at bay. We have created this …

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As you know, there are many types of programs designed to protect your information. The most common type of software is a firewall and virus scanners. They are designed to keep hackers at bay and keep your files safe from malware. There are a few other types of tools that can assist in protecting your data including antivirus, anti-spam, and email protection services. Additionally, several free software programs are also available to safeguard your information from cyber attackers.

What is data security?

Data security is how we keep our files and computers safe from hackers. Cyber attackers get into your computer and steal information to sell on the black market or use it for personal financial gain. This can happen when you use your computer, access the internet, open an email, and more. As you can see, there are many methods that cyber attackers can use to get access to your files. You can reduce your risks by using the following types of tools.

Top 5 types of software for data protection

Our team has listed the top five types of security protection solutions that can protect your data as well as keep hackers at bay. We have created this article to review some software for protecting your info.

1) Anti-virus

Many anti-virus companies offer a service to scan and remove viruses from your computer system. In some cases, they will scan your computer every day while they don’t always do so. Worry not because if you are concerned about the security of your files, you can access this service by yourself.

For instance, every time a file that is already infected with a virus is executed, it will immediately generate an alert and will ask to scan the infected file. This allows you to remove viruses easily. Additionally, anti-virus programs can detect malicious code that allows hackers to execute their malicious software.

2) Anti-spam

Although anti-spam software does not necessarily belong in the category of tools designed to secure data security, it still deserves a spot on this list. The reason is simple. Spam emails are a breeding ground for viruses and trojans to proliferate. If you want to protect your email address from spam as well as prevent email account hijacking, you need to install an anti-spam program on your computer system.

Spam emails are not just annoying but they are also dangerous. If you don’t keep an eye on your spam box, the chances of getting hit by a virus will be increased significantly. The best solution is to install an anti-spam software program on your computer system today.

3) Email protection service

An email protection service notifies its users when emails that contain malware are detected somewhere in the inbox or sent folder. The best email protection service will notify its users via the program’s user interface whenever it discovers a potentially harmful message. Many email services also allow you to protect your account from being hacked by an email scam.

You must have email protection software installed on your computer system. This is because most malware is sent via email. The best thing about having an email protection service is that you don’t need to install anything on your computer system. So, if you are looking for a way to safeguard your data security, this service deserves serious consideration.

4) Theft Protection Service (TPS)

If you are using a wireless device, such as a laptop or a smartphone, then you likely know how easy it is for these devices to get stolen. If you don’t take precautions, your files and personal information can be accessed, potentially putting your security at risk. The best solution is to install a top-notch anti-theft protection program on any wireless device that you use for your business or for traveling.

When theft is detected, the program will automatically notify you so that you can take necessary action. To prevent further damage, it also allows you to lock your files and delete your sensitive data remotely.

5) Internet Security

Finally, don’t forget that your Internet security is guaranteed by your Internet Service Provider (ISP). This means that if you have reliable access to the internet and want to protect your information security, you should know how to keep yourself safe when surfing the web. This includes not opening links if you are not sure about their origin.

You should also practice safe and secure habits when using the Internet. For instance, it is recommended that you don’t open attachments from emails from someone you don’t know. Also, avoid clicking on ads because they are usually designed by hackers to spread malicious software to infect users’ computer systems. If you want to be protected, then you need to ensure your computer system is protected as well.

These are just five of the best types of tools that you can use to protect your data security. 

  • Ensure that you have at least one good antivirus program and one good anti-spam program installed on your computer system. 
  • Of course, you will also have to do some work yourself to prevent your email address from being hijacked. 
  • Aside from these, don’t forget that your ISP also provides Internet security. 
  • Finally, take extra care when using wireless devices because they can be easily stolen by would-be hackers who want access to your data.

To be safeguarded from cyber criminals, then you need to have an antivirus program, anti-spam software, and anti-fraud programs installed on your computer system. This will help ensure that your digital assets are protected from malicious programs, hackers, and scammers. You can find more information about these types of tools by searching on Google or other search engines.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the best types of software that protect your data are anti-virus programs, anti-spam programs, and email protection services. These security programs can easily secure your computers from malware and spam. These services will also notify their users whenever they detect a malicious message in their inbox or sent folder. If you wish to protect the security of your digital assets and prevent yourself from any type of info loss or data theft, it is recommended that you install one of these top software programs today.

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