Data Safety Instructions For Website Owners

Data privacy is a matter where the old adage “prevention is better than cure” is definitely true. A small amount of harmful code uploaded to your website can cause immense damage, from a pop-up window opening to a password or session being stolen and complete system compromise. As part of your data security policies you should specify the frequency and manner in which your system scans for this type of malicious code and also what safeguards are in place limit the risk.

Be sure that the software platforms or scripts that you use on your website are updated regularly. Hackers are targeting security flaws in the popular web software and basics a lack of timely updates can make your system vulnerable. It is also recommended to limit database or network accessibility to a minimum number of users needed to complete their duties.

Make a plan to handle potential breaches. Then, assign a member of staff to manage the process. Based on the nature of your business you may have to inform law enforcement, customers and credit bureaus. This is a significant procedure that should be planned well in advance.

Set up strong password requirements for consumer accounts. Ensure that you have a method of storing passwords including the use of upper and lowercase letters, numerals and special characters, or using salt and hash functions that are slow. Avoid storing confidential information about users and should you have to limit the risk, you can do so by encryption or deleting the information after a certain period.