Data protection is now more critical than ever; this is due to the increase in cyber attacks over the last few years. As you would remember, there were a ton of attacks on major companies like Sony, Amazon, and Facebook in 2011/2012.

Furthermore, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a spike in cybercrime. However, experts stated that 97% of these intrusions could have been avoided, which suggests that these hackers exploited security flaws. 

Hence, it has become imperative to improve your data protection strategy. No matter how small your business or company is, it is necessary to adopt a comprehensive data protection strategy. This will protect your data and that of your customers, which will, in turn, build trust. 

Here are a few practices which can improve your data protection strategy: 

  • IMPROVE PASSWORD SECURITY 

One of the most common ways hackers break into accounts is by guessing passwords. According to a 2017 Centrify research, 81% of data breaches resulted from passwords being hacked. This suggests that there are thousands, or perhaps millions of people, who still use specific passwords. Some individuals even use their names or business names as passwords, making it easier for hackers to infiltrate. 

To improve your data protection, come up with a password that does not represent something personal to you. It shouldn't be the nickname for your partner or a date that can be easily guessed. Instead, use random words interspersed with symbols, letters, and capitalization. These combinations are usually challenging for hackers to think about, giving your account and data improved security. 

  • HIRE A DATA PROTECTION OFFICER

If you think your data protection needs are overwhelming, you can employ a data protection officer who would oversee your data protection strategies. Interestingly, some businesses are even required by law to appoint an officer; this is due to the recent changes in the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) laws. 

A data protection officer is not a necessity, but rather it's a practice that can incredibly improve your data protection strategy. If you can afford it, hire a data protection officer and outline to them what their duties should include. 

  • REGULARLY UPDATE YOUR SOFTWARES

It can become frustrating when your software continually asks to be updated. However, you must understand that there is a reason for this. When your software asks for an update, there is a chance that the developers have found a security bug, which has been fixed in the latest update. 

If you refuse to update, your software will be operating on older security patches, making it vulnerable to hackers. 

To improve your data protection strategy, always update every office software, and make sure your employees do the same. This will reduce security vulnerabilities in the software. 

  • MAKE USE OF A THIRD PARTY BACK UP SOFTWARE 

Nobody can adequately predict when a data breach will happen, which is why it is essential to make use of secure servers to save your data. You are sure you have a copy of all your data in a secure server through cloud storage solutions. In the case of a data breach, you can quickly restore all your lost data. 

A great option is the VM Backup Software, which is being used by reputable organizations worldwide. It comes with a simplified data protection system that has been designed to suit your needs and work environment. 

In conclusion, the need to improve your data protection strategy isn't an option but a necessity. You should always find new methods to protect your data and that of your customers. The place of data in our digital world cannot be overemphasized.