Data Classification Services – Dealing With The Changing Threat Landscape

In recent years, there has been a clear shift in the threats an organisation faces. While malicious outsiders are still rife and using sophisticated methods to try and target businesses, a large proportion of data breaches occur because of human error. According to IBM, this is the cause of 95 per cent of security incidents. Hence, data classification services have become vital for all businesses.

Human error is now the biggest threat to businesses because the working environment has changed so dramatically. It is now a highly interactive and collaborative environment where a variety of platforms are used for sharing ideas and information. The way data is stored, accessed and used has changed. From SharePoint to smartphones, platforms are diverse and extensive. More and more companies are also embracing a Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) policy, meaning devices are used for both personal and business use. This shift presents many benefits, but one major drawback is that it leaves companies exposed. IT security departments lack overall control because data is often being handled independently. Businesses can fall victim to accidental loss because employees aren’t trained in the secure handling of data. Additionally, devices can easily be lost or stolen; and what’s more, some of the apps being used will not be designed for corporate use. The potential problems are clear. This is where data classification tools prove invaluable. Through labelling data based on sensitivity, employees gain an increased understanding of data confidentiality, and will think twice whenever handling sensitive data or sending private files. Data classification provides the framework for a successful security policy to be implemented – a policy that includes all employees. This is the only way to deal with the changing threat landscape.

Many companies provide data classification services, but only the best will do. Speak to Boldon James. We have over 30 years’ experience and are a subsidiary of a major UK plc and FTSE 250 company. This should put your mind at ease when choosing our service.