Last updated on Jul 8, 2024

You're sharing sensitive data with remote clients. How do you protect confidentiality and security?

In today's digital age, sharing sensitive data with remote clients is a common but risky endeavor. Ensuring the confidentiality and security of this information is paramount, and it requires a multi-faceted approach. From secure channels of communication to robust data handling policies, protecting sensitive data is an ongoing process that demands attention and expertise. As you navigate the complexities of remote data sharing, remember that the right strategies can mitigate risks and foster trust between you and your clients.

1 Secure Channels

When sharing sensitive data, the first step is to use secure communication channels. These channels are encrypted, meaning that the information sent is converted into a code that only the intended recipient can decipher. Email is not inherently secure, so consider using encrypted email services or secure file transfer protocols (FTP). For real-time communication, opt for secure messaging apps or virtual private networks (VPNs) that provide an additional layer of security by masking your internet protocol (IP) address and encrypting your internet connection.

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Gaurav Jain

Presales Solutions Architect @ Tech Mahindra | Vertical Market Maker | Digital Growth Consultant | AI Promoter | Developing Proactive Engagements | Driving Opportunities with Technical Expertise in Managed Services
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Using Secure Communication Channels will be a good option to secure data while sharing with someone at remote location. Secure file transfer protocols such as SFTP (Secure File Transfer Protocol) or FTPS (FTP Secure) can be useful. Also, one can consider using end-to-end encrypted messaging services like Signal or encrypted email services like ProtonMail.

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2 Access Control

Access control is a critical component in safeguarding sensitive data. Implement strict user authentication measures to ensure that only authorized individuals can access the information. This might include multi-factor authentication (MFA), which requires users to provide two or more verification factors to gain access. Additionally, establish clear user roles and permissions within your organization to limit data access based on the principle of least privilege, ensuring individuals can only access the data necessary for their role.

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3 Data Encryption

Encrypting your data is like placing it in a vault; it's a fundamental security measure. Data encryption transforms readable data into an unreadable format unless you have the key to unlock it. Ensure that all sensitive data, both at rest and in transit, is encrypted. This means encrypting files on your servers as well as when they are sent over the internet. Strong encryption algorithms like AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) with a long key length are recommended for maximum security.

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Gaurav Jain

Presales Solutions Architect @ Tech Mahindra | Vertical Market Maker | Digital Growth Consultant | AI Promoter | Developing Proactive Engagements | Driving Opportunities with Technical Expertise in Managed Services
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One of the way of securing data is through Encryption. For e.g. for Data at Rest, various encryption process can be used to protect data stored on devices and servers. For Data in Transit, one can use TLS (Transport Layer Security) to encrypt data being transmitted over the internet.

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4 Policy Framework

Establishing a robust policy framework is essential for protecting sensitive data. This includes creating comprehensive data protection policies that outline how to handle sensitive information and the protocols for sharing it with remote clients. Regularly train your team on these policies and the importance of data confidentiality. Additionally, conduct periodic audits to ensure compliance and identify any potential vulnerabilities in your data sharing processes.

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5 Regular Updates

Keeping software up to date is crucial for security. Cyber threats are constantly evolving, and software developers regularly release updates to patch vulnerabilities. Ensure that all systems used for transmitting sensitive data, including operating systems and applications, are kept current with the latest security patches. Encourage clients to do the same to reduce the risk of data breaches due to outdated software.

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Dan Prudhomme

Segment Solved, Sales Up | SMB Revenue Lift via Target Marketing for Proprietors | 8 Figures Sold | Targetpreneur | Follow for Business, Relationships, and Growth Insights | Sign up to Niche Notes for Strategies.
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Regularly update encryption protocols and security measures to safeguard sensitive data during transmission and storage. Conduct frequent audits to identify vulnerabilities and address them promptly. Educate remote clients on best practices for data handling and encourage them to use secure communication channels. Maintain clear communication regarding security updates and policy changes to ensure all parties remain informed and compliant with confidentiality protocols.

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6 Incident Response

Despite all precautions, breaches can occur. Having an incident response plan in place is vital for quickly addressing any security incidents. This plan should outline the steps to take in the event of a data breach, including how to contain the breach, assess the damage, notify affected parties, and prevent future incidents. Regularly review and practice the response plan to ensure your team is prepared to act swiftly and effectively.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Juliana Canabrava

Advogada na TAG IMF | Governança Corporativa & Societário | Regulatório
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Além desses pontos um contrato com cláusulas bem robustas a respeito da utilização dos dados, finalidade, forma de tratamento, salvaguardas e entre outras ações que possam ser necessárias para protege-los e mitigar outros riscos em relação a acesso e/ou incidente de segurança por exemplo, ainda, atrelados a cláusulas penais robustas para prevenção das partes e também como forma mitigadora em relação ao “receio” da ausência de segurança, quando for o caso.

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You're sharing sensitive data with remote clients. How do you protect confidentiality and security?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Secure Channels

2 Access Control

3 Data Encryption

4 Policy Framework

5 Regular Updates

6 Incident Response

7 Here’s what else to consider

Business Services

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You're sharing sensitive data with remote clients. How do you protect confidentiality and security?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Secure Channels

2 Access Control

3 Data Encryption

4 Policy Framework

5 Regular Updates

6 Incident Response

7 Here’s what else to consider

Business Services

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