Privacy and Security
We have a holistic, layered approach that combines technology, policy, process, and culture. Below are the key strategies and best practices to ensure strong privacy and security
Key strategies and best practices
Data Discovery and Classification
Identify and classify data (e.g., personal data, financial records, IP).
Use tools to track data flow and storage across systems.
Label data by sensitivity: Public, Internal, Confidential, Restricted.
Access Control and Identity Management
Implement Role-Based Access Control (RBAC).
Enforce Least Privilege Access – only what’s necessary for the job.
Use Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) across systems.
Secure Infrastructure and Architecture
Use network segmentation to limit access zones.
Secure endpoints with antivirus, firewalls, and device encryption.
Harden servers and databases (disable unused ports, strong password policies).
Encryption and Data Protection
Encrypt data at rest (e.g., disks, databases) and in transit (e.g., HTTPS, TLS)
Use data masking and tokenization for sensitive fields in non-prod environments
Regularly rotate keys and credentials.
Security by Design
Integrate privacy and security into the Software Development Lifecycle (SDLC).
Use secure coding practices and perform code reviews.
Conduct threat modeling and risk assessments early in projects.
Continuous Monitoring and Incident Response
Deploy SIEM and log management for real-time threat detection.
Monitor user behavior for anomalies (UEBA).
Maintain and test an Incident Response Plan – ensure readiness for breaches or data loss.
Employee Awareness and Training
Conduct regular training on phishing, data handling, and cyber hygiene.
Run simulated phishing tests to assess readiness.
Educate on privacy principles (e.g., data minimization, consent).
Compliance with Privacy Laws
Align with regulations like GDPR, CCPA, HIPAA, PCI DSS.
Maintain records of data processing (Article 30 – GDPR).
Implement data subject rights processes (e.g., DSARs, right to erasure).
Third-Party Risk Management
Vet vendors with security questionnaires and assessments.
Ensure contracts include privacy and security clauses.
Monitor third-party compliance and breach notifications.
Build a Culture of Privacy and Security
Make it a shared responsibility, not just IT or security’s job.
Appoint a Data Protection Officer (DPO) or Chief Information Security Officer (CISO).
Embed privacy and security into organizational values and governance.
Tools to Support Privacy & Security
IAM Tools: Okta, Azure AD
SIEM: Splunk, QRadar, LogRhythm
DLP: Symantec, Forcepoint