With data loss incidents impacting on the lives of many people and businesses, the authorities are trying to take steps to minimise risks in the future. In a statement, the head of information assurance, Michael Gough claimed that with correct security and the right education data loss could be prevented.
Gough, who is also overlooking a security training programme in EDS, said that data loss problems would continue due to the increase in use of removable media devices. While addressing the public, he said that people need to know when to use removable media and why it is important to use data encryption when moving a high capacity of data to ensure no data risks are taken.
He also said that it was not security that was the problem, but human vulnerability was at the heart of data loss incidents. The problem can be solved by education and security development. Gough used the HMRC incident of copying data onto CDs and questioned why they were not protected when they were being moved.
The many security breaches have caused concern amongst the general public and constant reminders are now being sent to companies and agencies who handle sensitive client information. The use of better data security methods like an offsite data backup are being encouraged to ensure sensitive data is encrypted and protected at all times.
