8 Ways to Keep Your Event Data Safe
1. Email – Be careful and think twice before putting vital attendee information in an email, if you can share this information in person or over the phone then do so. The same goes with your API keys, if you must share with your tech provider, do it on the phone.
2. Data – Having data stored in a physical form increases the chance of it being stolen, so this includes print copy, hard drives and USB sticks. If you want to keep your data in physical format then invest in some secure storage, like cabinets with fitted locks, or have a shredder ready to dispose of data when you need to.
3. Passwords – It's important that you don't just stick to one password throughout time, you need strong passwords and should probably change them every 3 months. Your passwords are vital, and you should keep them to yourself, don't even share them with your team. Single Sign-On is something worth thinking about so that passwords are never actually submitted to the system. Whoever DOES have access to your systems, should have this access cut if they leave the company.
4. Staff – Your staff need to be trained into knowing how they can protect event data. It's pretty simple, just make sure they know not to leave sensitive/important material lying around. Make sure that at an event someone is always manning your stall – you never know who is snooping around!
5. Events – Don't leave laptops, smart phones or any kind of lists unattended. If you do have your laptop with you then make sure the screen is not showing any visible data to attendees/ potential threats. Although it is better to discuss sensitive data over the phone, make sure you are subtle about it, try to avoid doing it in public areas where you will be heard.
6. Hardware - Laptops and mobile phones are the main sources to all our data. When hosting an event or showcasing at one you should make sure everything is encrypted.
7. Third Party Software – As much as we rely on this to help us, we must help ourselves. You can go to whatever length to ensure the security of your own code, but you cannot assume that your third-party software has been secured properly., they are often exploited by hackers. So, you must do the upmost you can to secure data in a safe way.
8. Helpline – Why not take the time to train your staff in account verification standards so that your staff know what questions to ask and are not duped into giving out personal information.