Sony Pictures hack in 2014, the Panama Papers leak in 2015 and now one of Singapore’s largest hospital groups Singhealth was a victim of Singapore’s biggest ever cyber attack. SGH disclosed that about 1.5 million patients’ personal information and 160,000 medical records.
A data breach of this scale impedes public trust in the organisation. In light of the attack last month, hospitals and large organisations have stepped up their cyber security measures.
Data breaches are not new; there are many steps that can be taken to protect and secure your data.
So what can be done to prevent data breach in your organisation?
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Up to date security software
Ensure your systems and softwares are updated and patched regularly to steer clear of any loop holes for hackers to exploit.
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Restrict Internet Access
If your organisation manages data in millions, especially sensitive personal data of your customers, then restricting the use of internet within the premises is one effective way of keeping the hackers out.
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Regular Monitoring
Put processes and software in place to monitor irregularities and malicious activity.
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Third Party Evaluations
Regular penetration testing and vulnerability assessment using third party tools/services are effective ways of keeping your systems secure
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Involve Employees
Regular training should be provided for employees on how to encrypt data, generate strong passwords, how to properly file and store data etc.
