A Proactive Approach to Data Protection

Consumers are more demanding than ever – and they want more from the businesses they interact with. In today’s data-driven environment, they’re increasingly concerned about privacy, with many reluctant to share personal information due to security risks.

According to a recent Shred-it^® survey, consumer tolerance for data breaches is low, and companies that don’t prioritize data protection may lose customer trust. Potential customers expect the necessary steps will be taken to keep their sensitive information safe. This represents a significant opportunity for businesses of all sizes. While smaller businesses often lack the resources of larger organizations and are disproportionately affected by data breaches, investing in proactive data protection measures can help reduce costs over time. 

According to the Shred-it^® survey,

• 91% of consumers surveyed are more likely to purchase from a company that takes data and information protection seriously.
• 81% are much less likely to purchase from a company that has experienced a data breach. 
• Only 20% trust that companies will protect their personal data.
• 86% of businesses agree that data and information protection are top priorities.
• However, only 33% of business decision-makers describe themselves as extremely proactive about data and information protection.

Businesses can do more to alleviate consumers’ fears and demonstrate that their data will be safe.

What are Some Proactive Actions to Help Protect Consumer Data?

Small businesses can take specific steps to help protect consumers’ information and address their concerns. A proactive approach to data security is essential, and visibly demonstrating these efforts can reassure consumers. Some effective strategies include:

• Secure document and hard drive destruction
• Deploying anti-virus programs
• Implementing two-factor authentication
• Conducting risk analysis/mitigation
• Ensuring frequent software updates
• Encrypting sensitive data
• Conducting regular vulnerability assessments
• Providing employees with up-to-date security training

What Is The Role Of Training In Data Protection?

In 2024, 68% of data breaches involved a human element, according to Verizon, highlighting the need for robust training programs. Unfortunately, current training efforts are often not up to par and aren’t aligned with new technologies such as AI and with evolving regulations. Employers should consider providing regular, mandatory, and updated training for all employees and new hires to understand best practices for preventing data breaches and what to do if one occurs. Effective training programs help employees identify both physical and digital data security threats and risks.

How Can a Trusted Partner Bolster a Business’s Data Protection?

Business leaders juggle multiple responsibilities. A trusted data security partner can help businesses navigate complex and dynamic regulatory requirements for data and information protection. Partners, like Shred-it^®, can provide businesses with data protection tools, services, policy templates, and employee training programs tailored to an organization’s needs.

Shred-it^®’s policy templates and trainings are designed to help businesses of every size educate employees with resources and training that are:

• Interactive: Self-paced online training modules that involve users and promote better learning and understanding of the concepts.
• Customizable: Policy protocols are tailored to meet an organization’s unique information security needs so employees at every level have a better understanding of the specific nuance at play.
• Accessible: The easier it is to access the tools, trainings, policy templates, and service information, the more likely employees are to use them. Tools like these are easily available online at myshredit.com.
• Compatible: When paired with Shred-it^®’s paper shredding service, organizations can help keep their physical information secure and out of the hands of bad actors.

Partnering with the right third-party vendor can help build confidence in a company’s ability to protect sensitive data and information. Learn how Shred-it^® can help you take proactive steps to help protect your business from data breaches.