Good Habits Should Carry Through to Everything We Do—Including Data Security

You can’t throw the proverbial stick too far when browsing videos on YouTube before you come across motivational or instructional videos that offer “good habits for success.” Each one has its own spin on what these habits need to be, but most simply require small investments of time, energy or, better yet, personal commitment. At least to some extent, the habits these videos recommend are all valid. In fact, these habits, or “daily self-accountable actions,” as I prefer to call them, can start to improve body, mind and soul from day one. They can lead to better health, greater happiness, clearer skin—you name it. In some cases they can even improve data security.

When it comes to protecting sensitive data, we’re all responsible for keeping it safe. Whether it’s our own private data that resides on our desktops or in the HR department, or customer account information in Sales, or proprietary research or product information in Engineering, a breach can do tremendous damage. Sensitive data can even be put at risk by IoT (Internet of Things) equipment used to monitor, manage or secure our environment—everything from surveillance cameras to smart thermostats. All carry critical information that if compromised can reduce an organization’s brand value and overall business success.

Here are a few simple “good habits for success” to do daily that will help keep your company’s sensitive data secure.
For starters, use strong passwords. Even better: use multifactor authentication! Also:

• Make sure you lock your screen when you walk away from the computer.
• Don’t do sensitive work in public places. Prying eyes are everywhere, including online via unsecure Wi-Fi public networks. I know it’s tempting to “just catch up” in coffee shops. Don’t do it.
• Don’t talk about customers or projects in public places. Other people can and will overhear your conversation.
• Don’t display corporate badges that identify you or your company when not at your place of work. These are easily used to collect information about internal security or corporate information.
• Don’t talk about internal security systems or controls that your company or customers use. Take pride in their use, but keep it quiet. It helps us all!

And, finally, when you can, automate daily security tasks. Make the process truly repeatable and it becomes second nature and the foundation not just of good habits, but great ones.