Secure Data Exchange and Data Compliance are Primary Business Concerns

As technology evolves, so does the complexity of cyberattacks against companies. With more than 250,000 pieces of new malicious code detected every day, explained The Guardian, it has become increasingly difficult for organizations to protect themselves from attacks that will result in lost data and money as well as weakened infrastructure. Any or all of these problems are potentially debilitating for companies that haven't taken the proper steps to protect their networks.

The Guardian explained that new cybercriminal strategies include things like "crime packs" that allow hackers to control the location and management of their targets using a web-based interface. They can also use tools like online testing to improve their attacks before they are launched. Cybercrime is now more organized, targeted and can cause greater amounts of damage.

Despite the burgeoning threat, The Guardian pointed out that the average level of security used in mobile applications is worse than security practices used in traditional computer applications. With more people using mobile devices to access company data - and personal information - it is critical that developers learn from past mistakes and develop mobile apps that protect data rather than make it more vulnerable to hackers. Businesses may also benefit from considering the information itself and using data encryption software to protect their assets regardless of the device storing them. 

Concerns about data compliance, security regulations
Protecting data against cyberattacks is even more important with companies trying to ensure data compliance standards are met. A data breach in this regulatory climate can result in a rapid escalation of expenses as fines for failing to use data protection software are stacked on top of reputational damage. 

A new study about IT security found that data compliance strongly influenced companies' data protection practices, reported IT World Canada. 

"According to participants, complying with government and industry regulations is the minimum level of security required," the 2013 IT Security Study noted. "Compliance does not constitute the necessary level of security required in a landscape characterized by targeted, advanced threats."

Even more important is that the study shows companies are concerned that meeting regulations doesn't provide adequate network protection. Security experts feel that protecting data is their number one concern.

"What keeps me awake at night? Any breach that could impact confidential information from our loyalty program getting into the wrong hand," said a study participant.

One solution for companies with these kinds of concerns is to reduce security risks for data that is stored in the cloud. Many companies that rely on simple encryption technologies may want to consider a more complex blend of data compression software and data encryption software that significantly minimizes the chance of data security being compromised while simultaneously reducing cloud storage costs.