Companies that are security-conscious continue to expand their selection of data protection methods as their network access points keep on growing in an unprecedented level. Although among the most widely used security protocol is encryption, many are reviewing their encryption strategies in an era of sophisticated and persistent threats.
Re-evaluating data protection methods means you have to define your focus areas. In the case of encryption, there are a couple of considerations in order to transform security from being a challenge to a business enabler.
First, you have to identify which of your data needs encrypting in order to avoid unnecessary interruption of security protocols in areas which are not sensitive enough to merit the application of this method. When searching for a rather public data, users can often encounter unnecessary delays due to the pervasive implementation of encryption across the enterprise. A good security measure does not have to interfere with business processes.
From then on, when you have successfully identified focus areas for your encryption strategies, turn those plans into actions and determine critical enterprise content using security technologies. Automate the process of encrypting content in order to enable a quick mitigation response action to potential threats. This way warrants for the prevention of untoward data exposure.
Since the end users are the most important assets, they also need to occupy the top slot in security program considerations.
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Additionally, encryption should focus on efforts to address cloud data expansion, modern user experience and native cloud function retention. It would not be efficient to encrypt a huge volume of data in the cloud. Meanwhile, individuals are finding more applications of cloud computing in their lives, leading to a growing adoption of this service in the long run.
We have always been talking about cloud, so it is worth pointing out that encryption strategies must also be focused on this technology and be compatible with various cloud practices. Network devices must not be missed also. They can sometimes leave a single point of vulnerability if left unattended.
But above all, we must keep in mind that encryption is only one of several methods for protecting sensitive data. Relying on encryption as the sole source of security may not be feasible. Additional best practices are necessary to ensure robust protection for the enterprise.
In this regard, users play a vital role to keep security a top priority of the enterprise. But first they must be empowered by understanding their needs and informing them of the benefits of security.
