Information security is an essential aspect of any business. Information governance policies are the most effective option to protect yourself from security threats or cyberattacks, whether you're an F500 business or a hyper-growth startup. These policies ensure that no one is able to gain access to vital systems and data, limit the chance of data loss or theft and help businesses quickly recover from security incidents.
The primary principle of information security is to safeguard confidentiality. This means that only authorized persons have access to sensitive information and that they do not disclose or share the information. In certain instances this might be required by law (e.g., FERPA for individual student records). It is crucial to ensure that information is kept confidential and accessible even if access has been restricted.
Integrity protection includes the establishment of correct controls for software, systems and access to users. It is essential to have an appropriate IT asset manager to ensure that unused software is removed and the company is in compliance with its licensing agreements. Additionally, it's crucial to establish secure backup and recovery systems for digital and physical information.
In addition to offering legal and contractual protections information security can help companies establish trust with their customers or customers. A company that is known for its professionalism when it comes to handling personal data is more likely to retain users and attract new customers.