Top Strategies for Preventing Data Loss in 2024

Data loss can be catastrophic for businesses of all sizes. Whether due to hardware failure, human error, cyber attacks, or natural disasters, losing critical data can lead to costly downtime, reputational damage, and even legal consequences. As we head into 2024, it’s more important than ever to have robust strategies in place to prevent data loss. In this article, we’ll explore the top approaches to safeguarding your organisation’s valuable data.

1. Implement a Comprehensive Backup Solution

The foundation of any data loss prevention strategy is a reliable backup system. Regularly creating copies of your data ensures you can quickly restore it if the primary version is lost or corrupted. Look for a backup solution that is:

• Automated: Set backups to run on a schedule so you don’t have to remember to initiate them manually.

• Off-site: Store backups in a separate location from your primary data, ideally in the cloud.

• Tested: Regularly verify that backups are working as expected and files can be successfully restored.

Steegle One integrates seamlessly with Google Workspace, making it easy to back up all your critical data. You can configure automated backups and store them securely in Google Cloud. And with one-click restore, you can quickly get back up and running in the event of data loss.

2. Enable Version Control and File Recovery

Even with backups, accidentally overwriting or deleting a file can be a major headache. That’s where version control comes in handy. By keeping a history of changes made to files, you can easily revert back to a previous version if needed.

Steegle One includes built-in version control for all your intranet content. Every edit is automatically saved, allowing you to view and restore past versions with just a few clicks:

Plus, Steegle’s file recovery feature protects against accidental deletion. Recently deleted files can be restored by users themselves or an admin, saving time and reducing burden on IT.

3. Enforce Strong Access Controls

Not every employee needs access to every file and system. Implementing the principle of least privilege – only granting users the bare minimum permissions required to do their job – can significantly reduce the risk of data loss due to unauthorised access or insider threats.

With Steegle One, you can set granular access controls at the site, page, and file level. Define custom user roles and permission levels based on job function and seniority. You can also enable time-based access, setting temporary permissions for contract workers or revoking access automatically when employees leave.

4. Educate Employees on Data Handling Best Practices

Human error is one of the leading causes of data loss. Training your staff on proper data handling procedures can go a long way in preventing accidental deletion, unsecured sharing, and falling for phishing scams. Key topics to cover include:

• Password hygiene

• Identifying and reporting suspicious emails

• Safe file sharing practices

• Handling sensitive data

• Consequences of data loss

Steegle One makes it easy to deliver engaging security awareness training right through your intranet. Create dedicated pages with videos, quizzes, policies, and resources:

Employees can access training on-demand, and you can track participation to ensure everyone completes the program.

5. Implement Endpoint Device Management

With the rise of remote and hybrid work, company data often resides on employees’ laptops, smartphones, and tablets. Losing a device or having it stolen can put sensitive information at risk. Endpoint device management allows you to secure and control access to data on these distributed devices.

Key capabilities to look for include:

• Remote wiping of lost/stolen devices

• Enforcing password and encryption requirements

• Restricting installation of unauthorized apps

• Pushing security updates and patches

Steegle One integrates with leading endpoint management solutions like Google Endpoint Management, VMware Workspace ONE, and Microsoft Intune. You can easily deploy and manage the Steegle app on corporate devices right alongside your other enterprise applications.

6. Monitor for Suspicious Activity

Quick detection of potential data loss incidents can help minimise damage. Implement monitoring tools that provide real-time visibility into file access and user activity. Look for red flags like:

• Large downloads of sensitive files

• Access from unusual locations or IP addresses

• Repeated failed login attempts

• Sudden changes in user behaviour

Steegle One includes built-in intranet analytics to help you spot suspicious activity. Get alerted of abnormal events and drill down into detailed logs for investigation and forensics.

7. Respond Effectively to Data Loss Incidents

Even with the best prevention strategies in place, data loss incidents can still occur. Having a well-defined incident response plan ensures you can take fast, effective action to contain the damage. Key steps to include:

1. Assemble cross-functional response team

2. Identify and isolate impacted systems

3. Determine scope and severity of data loss

4. Contain and eradicate root cause

5. Restore from backups

6. Investigate and document lessons learned

Steegle One has expert consultants on hand to help you develop and implement a strong incident response plan. And their 24/7 support team is available to assist should you ever experience a data loss event.

8. Comply With Data Privacy Regulations

A data loss prevention strategy isn’t complete without considering compliance. Regulations like GDPR, HIPAA, and CCPA place strict requirements on how personal data must be collected, stored, and protected. Failing to comply can lead to hefty fines and reputational harm.

When evaluating technology solutions, look for ones that provide robust controls for meeting regulatory requirements. Steegle One is committed to helping customers achieve and maintain compliance:

Their platform undergoes regular audits and pen testing, follows industry best practices for data security, and offers tools for managing data subject rights.

By layering these strategies together and choosing an intranet platform built with data protection at its core, you can minimise data loss and keep your business running smoothly. See how Steegle One can help you upgrade your data defences today.