The Importance of Storing Confidential Information Securely
If it is stored digitally or in physical form, keeping confidential information is an important consideration for special info organizations that value privacy. A privacy breach could result in serious consequences, ranging from loss of revenue to damaged reputation. HIPAA regulations could subject to health care providers large fines if access to patient information to fall into the wrong hands. A trade secret of a company that falls into the wrong hands could have a negative effect on a business’s competitive advantages.
It is recommended to establish procedures that guarantee the safe handling of sensitive data without compromising workflow efficiency. It is important to ensure that employees lock their cabinet doors and filing cabinets at the end of every day, log off their computers and then put away their files. When selecting and utilizing a third-party service provider who handles confidential information, it is essential to take into consideration security. Consider a service that offers collaboration and file sharing in encrypted format.
Encryption is a method to protect confidential information, both in digital and paper form. You should also shred paper documents that contain confidential information before throwing them away. Don’t throw them in the recycling bin or in the trash. Criminals are able to comb through these bins and discover private information.