Whether it’s financial reports, healthcare records or a start-up business plan, every company collects data that requires safeguarding. The costs of breaches, lawsuits and fines are high—not to mention damage to a brand’s reputation. This is why it’s imperative to take steps, tactics and best practices to ensure data safety.

Data security involves encrypting and protecting the information stored within an organization’s computer systems and networks. It also includes limiting access to this information and monitoring activity to ensure compliance with organizational policies.

While there are many threats that can put sensitive information at risk, the most common include malware (malicious software), phishing attacks and insider threats. These types of attacks can be prevented with a combination of security technologies such as firewalls, intrusion detection and prevention, and anti-virus/malware tools.

Another challenge is ensuring that all employees are trained in data safety. This training should be included as part of new hire onboarding. It should also be ongoing, with regular refreshers and training on the latest scams. In addition, with remote and hybrid work becoming more prevalent, it’s important to ensure that all devices—both organizational and personal—are properly encrypted and protected against hacking and unauthorized access.

There is a difference between data privacy and data security. Data privacy focuses on keeping sensitive information private from non-authorized parties, while data security focuses on protecting the integrity of information. This is mainly accomplished through access control (limiting who can view, edit and save files), authentication (using passwords, PIN numbers, security tokens, swipe cards, etc.), encryption and configuration management.

In addition, companies must make sure they have a back-up copy of all data in case the original file is lost or damaged. This can be done through a physical disk, local network or cloud storage system. This is particularly vital for regulated industries, like healthcare and finance, where they must comply with additional standards to protect user data.

Finally, it’s important to periodically purge old or unused data. This can be done with systems that track and monitor file activity, as well as using digital shredding or degaussing to ensure the data is no longer accessible. It’s also helpful to have a policy in place that instructs teams to double-check that any physical copies (like X-rays, microfilm, or negatives) are destroyed as well.

Data security is a major concern for all organizations. With increased regulations and the number of data breaches continuing to increase, it’s more critical than ever to invest in cybersecurity measures. By taking the proper steps and implementing the right technologies, you can protect your organization’s most valuable asset.

An instant proxy or VPN IP test is a piece of software that can detect if a user’s connection goes through a VPN or any other tunneling protocol. This allows websites to identify whether the connection is legitimate or if the user is hiding their true location, engaging in cyber attacks or other bad behavior.

VPNs and proxies are commonly used for good actions like bypassing geographic restrictions, browsing anonymously, or protecting privacy online. However, they are also frequently abused by fraudsters to hide their real identities when committing fraudulent activities or launching cyberattacks. This can include credit card chargebacks, creating multiple accounts, generating click fraud, and other forms of identity theft or malicious activity.

IP Reputation Analysis API: Score and Monitor Risk in Real-Time

There are several ways to detect a connection that uses a VPN or other tunneling protocol. These methods include using ping tests, looking for patterns in HTTP headers, and analyzing the browser’s latency to the server. Using a timezone comparison, for example, can help to spot a connection that has been routed through a proxy (as opposed to a direct connection) by identifying the mismatch in the timing between the originating browser and the server.

Another method is to use WebRTC to test if a connection is using a proxy or any other tunneling protocol, as this enables direct peer-to-peer communication between users and will usually expose the original IP address. This is a known method of detecting a VPN, but it only works for certain applications and browsers and cannot be used for all connections.

Seasonal Window Treatment Upgrades

When the seasons change, balancing light and privacy, insulation and aesthetics, and comfort and energy efficiency becomes even more important. The right window treatments play a key role in all of this, providing the best solution for each climate.

Spring

Design made effortless offers the perfect opportunity to introduce on-trend fabrics like linen, cotton blends and woven textures, complementing minimalist and nature-inspired interiors. A simple update to your curtains, valances or blinds is an affordable way to add new life to your home’s windows.

DIY Installation Guide for Motorised Curtains

When the temperatures rise, keeping your space cool and comfortable can be a challenge. Window treatments can help by reducing the amount of sunlight that enters your home, and offering UV protection. They can also be energy-efficient, which helps reduce your utility costs throughout the year.

Fall

As the days shorten, heavy drapes made from insulating fabrics can create a cozy atmosphere in your home. Adding thermal or blackout liners is another simple way to boost your drapery’s functionality as the weather turns colder.

Winter

Montana’s harsh winters require robust window coverings that offer insulation and warmth, while still maintaining a cozy aesthetic. Cellular shades, which have a honeycomb design that traps air to help keep the cold out and the heat in, are an ideal option. In addition, a low-emissivity window film (applied to your glass) can reduce solar heat gain and glare while protecting your furnishings from sun damage. Lastly, shutters are a long-lasting and durable choice that can increase your home’s insulation and lower your energy costs.