In the digital age, safeguarding data privacy is paramount for any organization. We’ve gathered insights from CEOs and CTOs on the policy changes that significantly bolstered their data security. From adopting ISO 27001 data protection standards to installing encrypted communication channels, discover the seven transformative policies these leaders have implemented.
- Adopted ISO 27001 Data Protection Standards
- Switched to Signal for Secure Communication
- Updated Data Encryption Policy
- Enforced Strict Data-Access Control
- Implemented Comprehensive Data Classification System
- Shifted to Full Data Encryption Protocol
- Installed Encrypted Communication Channels
Adopted ISO 27001 Data Protection Standards
Compliance with ISO 27001 security and data protection standards was the most significant policy change that improved data privacy at TrackingMore. Getting this certification gave us a framework that set the tone for how we approach data management and risk management in the organization, ensuring that we prioritized data protection and upheld the highest privacy standards.
ISO 27001 regulations also dictate how we manage access controls to our business and customer data. Additionally, by following the framework’s best practices, we’ve ensured the TrackingMore website is fully encrypted to ensure data privacy.
CEO, TrackingMore
Switched to Signal for Secure Communication
We only communicate with Signal. The only user information that Signal stores is phone numbers, and I already get robocalls, so I’m not worried if they have a breach. This protects our company’s privacy completely. The only way to get our data is by accessing each device that we use, and that is highly unlikely with a company full of security and privacy experts. If you want your business communications to stay private, use Signal.
Privacy Expert at Cyber Insider, Cyber Insider
Updated Data Encryption Policy
Reviewing and updating (or creating) a data encryption policy can have a significant impact on data privacy. This policy mandates the encryption of all sensitive data, both at rest and in transit, ensuring that personal and sensitive information is protected from unauthorized access.
To achieve this, we usually review and define encryption standards, system coverage, and key management, and regularly audit and update to include new processes and systems. Conducting regular security audits to verify encryption compliance and methods to defend against emerging threats is also crucial.
This process helps enhance data security and compliance with data protection regulations such as GDPR, HIPAA, and CCPA, which often require the encryption of sensitive data.
Managing Director, CloudTech24
Enforced Strict Data-Access Control
One policy adjustment that greatly improved data privacy in our organization was implementing a strict data-access control policy. This policy involved limiting access to sensitive company and client information to only those employees who needed it to perform their job duties. We also conducted regular audits and reviews to ensure that access levels were appropriate and only granted on a need-to-know basis.
Operations Manager, Fit Design
Implemented Comprehensive Data Classification System
At PanTerra Networks, we recently implemented a comprehensive data classification system that has significantly enhanced our data privacy practices. This new policy requires all data to be categorized based on its sensitivity and importance, ranging from public information to highly confidential data. By clearly defining these categories and establishing specific handling procedures for each level, we’ve ensured that sensitive customer information receives the highest level of protection throughout its lifecycle.
This policy adjustment has had a profound impact on our organization’s data privacy. It has raised awareness among our employees about the importance of data protection and provided clear guidelines for handling different types of information. As a result, we’ve seen a marked decrease in potential data exposure incidents and an improvement in our overall security posture.
Moreover, this classification system has allowed us to implement more targeted security measures, such as encryption and access controls, based on the sensitivity of the data. This enhances our ability to protect our clients’ information and demonstrates our commitment to maintaining the highest standards of data privacy and compliance in the industry.
Director of Sales, PanTerra Networks
Shifted to Full Data Encryption Protocol
We implemented a strict data-encryption protocol, which greatly improved our data privacy. We decided to encrypt all sensitive data both in transit and at rest. This means that any data sent over the internet, such as customer information and internal communications, is encrypted, and all stored data, including backups, is also protected.
This shift required us to update our IT infrastructure and familiarize our employees with new security practices. We adopted advanced encryption standards (AES-256) and incorporated Secure Socket Layer (SSL) certificates for our websites and applications.
This action resulted in a significant decrease in data breaches and unauthorized access incidents. It also strengthened our clients’ confidence in our commitment to protecting their information, leading to stronger client relationships and a better reputation in the market.
Owner, Searchant
Installed Encrypted Communication Channels
One fundamental policy change that significantly enhanced data privacy in our firm was the installation of encrypted communication channels for all internal and client contacts. This adjustment occurred following a thorough evaluation of our data handling practices, which revealed weaknesses in our email and messaging systems.
Previously, our communication technologies were secure but exposed to more advanced cyber-attacks. By moving to completely encrypted communication channels, we ensured that critical information, such as client personal information and case facts, was protected from illegal access.
This improvement strengthened our cybersecurity and informed our clients that their data was secure, increasing trust in our services. This policy modification was motivated by keeping up with technical improvements and responding to our clients’ feedback on data protection.
The outcomes were immediate and significant. We saw a considerable drop in phishing attempts and unauthorized access instances. Furthermore, the clients’ reaction was largely favorable, as they appreciated the extra precautions to protect their privacy. By prioritizing communication security, we protect our customers and maintain our reputation as a trustworthy legal service provider.
Co-Founder and Personal Injury Attorney, Templer & Hirsch
