Are you emailing sensitive information? If so, beware... This could happen to you!
by Neal Fisch in awareness, data security, email, encryption, faculty, personal security, security, staff, students, tips, vulnerabilities 0
It's inevitable that at some point at a college or university a request for sensitive data will be made to the owning department for a research project, a cross departmental project, or even a report to upper management. All of these scenarios are common and acceptable requests, however, the method used to transmit or share the requested confidential data is critical to the safety and security of that data. Here is an example of using an incorrect transmission method and the repercussions that followed.
Sharing of confidential information is an acceptable practice provided the following safeguards are used:
- Approval of the data owning department is given (preferably in writing).
- A secure, encrypted transmission method is setup to send and receive the data.
- Communication! If you're unsure transmitting this data is appropriate or safe contact your security team.
Following these steps at a minimum will save you from many headaches and heartaches later.
