Data Safety Instructions For Website Owners
Data privacy is a case where the old adage “prevention is better than cure” certainly applies. A tiny bit of harmful code uploaded on your website can cause massive damage. From an ad-hoc pop-up to a system breach, or even an unintentional theft of passwords or sessions. As part of your data security policy you must define the frequency and duration at which your system scans for this type of malicious code and also what safeguards are in place reduce the risk.
Update any scripts or software platforms which you use on your site regularly. Hackers are targeting security holes in the popular web software and a lack of timely updates leaves your system vulnerable. You should also restrict access to networks or databases to the minimum amount of people necessary to perform their task.
Create a plan to address possible breaches and designate a staff member to oversee the process. Depending on the nature of your business, you may require notification of consumers, law enforcement, customers, and credit bureaus. This is a serious matter that should be planned in advance.
Implement strong password requirements and ensure you have a way to save passwords. For example, you may need to use upper and lowercase characters, numerals and special characters. You can also utilize salt and hash functions that are slow. Avoid storing confidential data about users and when you have to limit the risk, you can do so by encryption or deleting the data after a certain time.
