Summer might be the season for relaxation, but for businesses, it’s also the perfect time to prepare for the busy holiday season just around the corner. With increased sales, customer interactions, and data exchanges happening in the autumn, ensuring your robust data security should be a priority now.
This blog’ll provide a checklist of best practices for securing your business over the summer and ensuring you’re ready for the holiday rush.
Checklist: Data Security Best Practices
1. Audit Data Access
As your business grows, more team members may have access to sensitive data than necessary. Now is the time to thoroughly audit who has access to what information.
Action Points:
- Revoke access for staff who no longer need it.
- Ensure that only key personnel can access highly sensitive data.
- Implement role-based access controls to limit unnecessary access.
2. Update Security Policies
Security policies can easily become outdated, especially with changing regulations and technologies. Take the time this summer to review and update your data protection policies.
Action Points:
- Ensure policies are aligned with the latest GDPR guidelines.
- Communicate policies to your staff.
- Update employee handbooks and training materials to reflect these changes.
3. Test Your Backup and Recovery Plans
Increased business activity generates more data, increasing the risk of data loss or breaches. Ensure your backup systems are working properly and your disaster recovery plan is robust.
Action Points:
- Test your backup systems to ensure all critical data is being properly stored.
- Review your disaster recovery plan to ensure it can handle increased activity during the holiday season.
- Consider a cloud-based backup solution for added security and accessibility.
4. Conduct Training
Your team is critical in data protection, and training is key. Ensure everyone is updated on security best practices and ready for the busy months ahead.
Action Points:
- Schedule a data security refresher course before the holiday season starts.
- Emphasise key areas like phishing, password security, and device management.
- Provide resources like quick guides or videos that team members can review.
5. Review Third-Party Risk Management
If your business relies on third-party vendors, such as payment processors or shipping companies, make sure they follow data protection best practices.
Action Points:
- Review vendor contracts to ensure they include data protection clauses.
- Ask vendors for their security policies and procedures.
- Consider conducting a security audit of your key third-party vendors.
Conclusion
Addressing these areas during the summer will set you up for success in the autumn and winter. By ensuring your data security is solid, you can focus on growing your business, knowing you’re prepared for whatever the busy holiday season throws.
Want a tailored data security plan for the upcoming season? Book a free clarity call consultation today to make sure your business is ready.
Other blogs that might interest you: