Technology has allowed companies, big and small, the ability to access large amounts of customer data. With so much data it can be difficult, costly and, ultimately, overwhelming for companies to ensure that their private information is secure. Here are a few tips to help your company avoid common big data pitfalls and some solutions to prevent mix-ups before they happen:

1. Encrypt Your Emails

To encrypt or to not encrypt? Encrypting emails is something that most companies routinely overlook, but can cause problems in the future. Some businesses choose to forgo email encryption because it can be costly and complicated, while others think encryption is insignificant and unimportant. Businesses should assume that every email they send can potentially be intercepted by cybercriminals.

What’s the solution?

Invest in a top-notch system that ensures all emails and attachments are ready only by their intended recipients.

2. Updated Your Software

Believe it or not, some companies still use outdated devices in the workplace. According to the Journal of Accountancy, using outdated computers in the office can lead to more technical problems since older devices almost always lack new features, freeze up more often and are slow to complete common tasks such as rebooting, launching applications, printing and surfing the internet. Additionally, older computer systems can be more vulnerable to cyberattacks, can rob employees of much-need time and can put business data at a higher risk of a breach.

What’s the solution?

According to Business News Daily, computers should be replaced as often as every three to five years, or within 12 months of a new operating system release. Here are some signs that it’s time to purchase a new computer:

The computer is more than three years old.
The user complains of bugs, freeze-ups, and general issues.
The computer takes longer than 30 seconds to reboot.

3. Get Your Employees On Board

The newest technology is useless without the people who use it. One of the most common issues associated with technical problems is that many employees are not adequately trained to use their devices and don’t understand those key features that will make their lives easier and their data more secure.

What’s the solution?

In the workplace, employees should be trained to use company products and receive periodic training updates on software applications they frequently use. When it comes to programs that employees use daily, such as Outlook and Word, businesses should schedule two to three days of training throughout the year, so employees remain well-versed in the systems they use every day.

At MDL Technology, your company’s security is our number one concern. By offering services such as 24/7 support, network monitoring, offsite data backups, auditing and compliance and more, we help ensure that you don’t need to stress about your team’s private information becoming public. Learn more about the services we offer by visiting our website.