Darwinian theory of data protection

28 June 2010

Do you know where your children are? Yes? Well, a lot of other people might too. West Berkshire Council recently breached the Data Protection Act when it lost a USB drive containing personal information on children.

This is the second time in a year that such a breach has happened - the first was when Wigan Council lost an unprotected laptop containing similar files.

Whether dealing with the safety of children or mortgages it is vital that information doesn’t get into the wrong hands. To ensure files are protected you must constantly review your security measures.

The ever-shifting currents of the internet continue to lead us through uncharted waters. The tides shift and it’s a daunting task to swim against them. The children’s files slipped through the cracks because several council employees failed to use the latest encryption technology.

In the case of data security a simple password isn’t good enough. To prevent hackers from getting in encryptions must be changed frequently and it’s vital that firms control who has access to classified information.

Businesses must take a Darwinian approach to security because threats evolve as fast as protection measures. That’s why we recommend encryption ciphers are changed several times a day.

When a new form of security is established new ways to tear down defences are established almost immediately. To protect your assets, always be prepared for what’s next.

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