Many businesses will experience a catastrophic data loss this year. Here are some tips and advice from Mark Dryer, CEO of MDL Technology, about how to keep data safe.

• Keep sensitive data in a central location.  Limiting the number of data storage sources simplifies your security strategy.

• Make sure that your data is stored in an encrypted file system.

• Emails containing sensitive data should be encrypted.

• Implement firewalls and antivirus programs that utilize the most current antivirus/anti spyware/IPS services to eliminate external threats. Implement a patching system so that all operating systems and applications remain current.

• Secure the data so that only the people that require access to the information are able to access the information.

• Develop a strategy for accounting for data saved on external storage and retired computer assets.

• Review and audit your security policies and practices to make sure that they address the latest security threats.

• Use BIOS / hard drive passwords for laptops and mobile storage devices containing sensitive data to prevent them from being accessed in the event that they are lost or stolen.

• If you follow some or all of these tips, you will have a better chance of not only keeping your brand safe, but more importantly your customers safe as well.