So, this month the 11 million documents stolen from Mossack Fonseca has hit the headlines as being one of the largest known leaks of data.
While this cyber-attack is really one of a kind, it really is not the first time these sort of things have happened within organisations recently, and it certainly will not be the last.
This case really does need to be a wakeup call for all business owners who withhold personal client data, and entice them to review their firm’s cybersecurity systems.
For those in industries where the amount of personal date held on behalf of their clients is high, then it’s time to make good use of the recent case and tighten the security systems.
It has been highlighted that a lot of organisations’ cybersecurity processes are based largely on trust with their staff.
But unfortunately when dealing with human elements; as we all know, trust is very often abused.
According to recent research it is suggested that 55% of all cybercrime is committed by insiders of the business.
It has been suggested that these few staff, former staff and contractors are likely to take advantage of relaxed security procedures.
According to another source a study last year showed that over 50% of the respondents who took part in a survey, felt that it would be very difficult to identify if their ex-employees still had access via their accounts to resources on their networks.
Even more worrying 55% of these thought the same about ex-contractors still having access to their networks.
These are significantly high figures, considering that the individuals in question have the three things needed to commit cybercrime; Means, Motive and Opportunity.
Therefore maintaining cyber defences based around trust will no longer be sufficient, it is time for you to up your game or risk losing your clients data.
Don’t risk being subject to breaching your clients confidentiality or data protection.
If you suspect any breach of data protection, especially a cyber-attack, by staff or former employees please don’t hesitate to contact us on 01909 512 120 or email ella@loftusstowe.com for advice.