Common Causes of Data Breaches and How to Prevent Them

If your website business suffers a data breach, the results can be catastrophic. Potential cyber threats can launch themselves at you from many different angles.

Therefore, everyone in your company must have a thorough understanding of the dangers and how you can stop them.

Below are a few of the most common causes of data breaches and what you can do to prevent them from occurring.

Weak Passwords

Although it might sound too simple to be true, many data breaches are caused by weak or predictable passwords.

This is an easy trap for many to fall into because people want to use passwords that are easy to remember.

With increasingly increasing accounts, companies, products, and services requiring passwords, it can be tempting to use the same combination multiple times.

Or use something inherently personal when thinking of a new one. This is a big mistake.

Cyber hackers are highly intelligent. They know where you work, who you are married to, and the district you live in. So, anything remotely related to your life or work should not be used.

What is the solution? Well, make stronger passwords. This goes for every member of staff in your business.

Educate them on the importance of cybersecurity. Offer actionable advice they can use daily to prevent them from putting themselves and your business at risk.

You can also use data catalog tools to securely organize and monitor sensitive information, reducing the risk of breaches.

Do Not Go it Alone

One way to make your life far more manageable and ensure your business is far better protected from cyber threats is to get help from cybersecurity experts.

This can range from anti-virus software to consulting with an expert. Whatever your business needs, do not skimp on security essentials.

For instance, if you’re using cloud-based services, using a CNAPP can safeguard you from potential threats, allowing you to max out your experience on the platform.

People Closest to Home

Often, the gravest threats to your data security lurk closest to home. Your business may have a tough exterior, shielded from the cyber thieves outside, but it is softest at its core.

This leaves it vulnerable to unwitting or disillusioned employees who accidentally or deliberately leak your data.

Additionally, many data breaches result from staff members losing their devices in taxi cabs or on trains.

You must take the necessary steps to ensure that your staff is thoroughly trained on cybersecurity threats and the vulnerability of your company data.

If you have not already done so, consider using cloud-based platforms and limit employee data access unless strictly necessary.

Train Experts to Protect Your Site

Another strategy you can use to protect your business from data breaches is to build a dedicated IT security team within your organization.

They will be dedicated to keeping your data safe and your website fault-free. This has other benefits, too.

Moreover, ensuring that your organization aligns with recognized security standards is crucial. For companies working with the U.S. Department of Defense, achieving CMMC compliance becomes a priority. By adhering to such standards, you reinforce the robustness of your security measures and demonstrate a commitment to maintaining the highest levels of data integrity for your partners and clients.

By training staff from the ground up, you are more likely to be perceived as an attractive business to work for and maintain staff morale.

With experts in-house, you can also make far more informed decisions about your cybersecurity and where you store your data.