Why and how businesses should protect against data breaches from within

As we become more connected and companies hold more data, breaches are increasing, with more than 4,000 reported in 2016 alone. A statistical analysis of breaches in the United States found that 85% were conducted by someone known to the business, usually an employee or partner.

To protect both themselves and their customers, companies need to secure their data. This starts with critically evaluating what data they hold, and then securing, dumping and outsourcing it as necessary.

We can never be entirely protected from data breaches, but understanding data is the first step to minimising the risk.

Data breaches can take a number of forms

Recently, Australian startup ShowPo alleged a former employee had exported a customer database before going to work for a competitor.

A DuPont employee was charged just this month with stealing 20,000 files – including trade secrets – with the aim of selling them to rival companies in Taiwan. Read more

Craig Horne - The Conversation - 24 Apr 2017