Top 7 Data Security Lessons for In-House Counsel
Data security remains a top concern among in-house counsel and for good reason. A breach can bring hefty fines, result in expensive litigation, and damage a brand. But breaches are also preventable.
If you're not already taking action to ensure your cybersecurity, or if you need to step your game up (and we all do), here's a quick refresher course.
1. The Greatest Threat to Your Data Security May Be Yourself
Forget Russian hackers. A recent study shows that most data breaches are caused by human error, not nefarious outsiders or malware. In a review of over 200 data breaches, a large IP firm found that employee negligence was the leading cause of lost data.
2. In-House Attorneys' Game Plan for Data Breaches and Cybersecurity
One of the best ways to mitigate the impacts of a data breach is to have a response plan in place, ready to go. This includes knowing your risk, knowing what information can be shared with the public regarding a breach, and knowing how to detect and react to a breach in a timely manner.
3. Follow the Feds When It Comes to Supply Chain Cybersecurity
It's not just your employees who can put data at risk. You'll need to protect the data that's in the hands of suppliers, contractors, and the like, as well. Thankfully, the Feds have a lot of it figured out already.
4. Your Company's Data Breach May Be the Least of Its Problems
You've survived the data breach, the media fallout, the consumer anger. Now comes the really hard part: an FTC enforcement action.
5. FCC's 1st Data Security Fine: $10M Sought for Breach
Not convinced that you'll need to worry about the FTC? Then check out this.
6. Simple Data Protection Steps Could Have Prevented the Astros Hack
Taking a few basic steps to protect data -- like requiring employees to regularly update their passwords -- can prevent breaches like the ones the Houston Astros experienced last summer.
7. Small Steps to Reduce Chances of a Data Debacle
Again, small steps can make a big difference when it comes to data security, so get on top of your corporate password and encryption policies.
Related Resources:
- CFTC: Adopt New Security Measures, Or Else? (FindLaw's In House)
- Strategy, Succession, Security: Lessons From a C-Suite Survey (FindLaw's In House)
- National Cyber Security Awareness Month: Resources and Tips (FindLaw's In House)