When you’re running companies and raising capital, as David Geithner has done for years, it’s important to keep privacy in mind. Unfortunately, this is an area that a lot of business owners and professionals tend to forget about until they themselves fall victim to a data breach.
So, why is it so important? For starters, 2021 broke a record for the number of data breaches, which means it’s becoming more and more prevalent in our society. And these criminals aren’t just stealing your information to sell to companies so they can tailor their marketing to your demographic, either. They’re aiming for bank account numbers, social security numbers, and anything that they can use to wreak havoc on your life or company.
Here are a few ways that you can stay safe and avoid a data breach.
1. Watch for suspicious emails
A major way that hackers can gain access to your accounts is through well-disguised emails. These are designed to look like they are coming from a trusted company (for example, your bank), and will usually ask you to enter in sensitive information or to change your password.
Once you’ve done this, they can now access your accounts or computer. This is called “phishing” and it’s a very prevalent way that hackers can gain access to your information. Always check to make sure the email is actually from the person or company they are claiming to be, and double-check the website it is trying to direct you to.
2. Physical Data
Data breaches don’t always occur due to online hacking, sometimes they can be from physical theft. A data breach can happen if you don’t properly destroy something before throwing it away, or if sensitive information is left out. Whether at home or at work, you should always
- Shred your documents before disposing of them, or utilize a shred bin that has a company that will come dispose of them for you.
- Keep all sensitive information in a locked cabinet.
- Blackout account numbers of banks, social security numbers, or other private information that could be used in a data breach.
- Train your employees to follow these practices (you can only do so much by yourself!)
Remember, sensitive information should never be left within reach of someone it isn’t intended for, and it should always be destroyed before being thrown out.
3. Use protective software
There are various software companies that sell products that can protect you and your company, but you’ll want to make sure you’re getting the one that is right for you. Whether you need a product designed as an anti-virus, anti-spyware, or a firewall, it’s best to work directly with an IT company to make sure that you’re getting the most protection possible.
These protective software products will put up a virtual wall around the data that you need to keep protected, so you can avoid being the victim of a data breach. Data breaches are no small matter, and they can destroy a company’s reputation, finances, and more. Follow the above tips so you can avoid becoming the next victim of a data breach.
