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The Importance of Data Security: A Lesson from Uber

Last week, news broke that the ride-sharing company Uber had suffered a data breach. 

The extent of the hack has not been fully released and Uber are careful not to mention, as of yet, what personal information of its worldwide userbase has been leaked. Uber has been sharply criticised for how easily access was gained. So, what does this mean for other businesses? Is your business at risk of a data breach? And if so, what can you do to protect your business’s reputation?

“It is unclear how much data has been leaked, but the information could include customers and drivers personal information. What is particularly alarming is the ease with which hackers were able to gain entry to the VPNs,” according to one of our senior cybersecurity advisors’ Dave Jaggs.

Data breaches are becoming increasingly common

Data breaches are becoming increasingly common, with large companies like Facebook, Twitter, and now Uber suffering hacks in recent months. And while it’s easy to think that only big businesses are at risk, the truth is that any business could be a target. After all, hackers aren’t after any particular type of business; they’re after data that they can sell or use to commit fraud.

So, what can you do to protect your business?

First and foremost, you need to have a plan in place for how to respond to a data breach. This plan should include steps for notifying affected individuals, co-operating with law enforcement, and managing the PR fallout. Secondly, you need to make sure that your security systems are up-to-date and effective. This includes things like investing in antivirus software, multi-factor authentication and training your employees on cybersecurity best practices. Finally, you need to be vigilant about monitoring your systems for suspicious activity. If you suspect that your business has been hacked, act quickly to contain the damage and minimise the risk to your customers’ data.

No business is immune from data breaches, as the recent Uber hack has made all too clear. If your business hasn’t already put a plan in place for how to handle such an incident, now is the time to do so. By taking steps to protect your business now, you can help minimise the damage if (and when) a data breach occurs. To learn more about other ways that hackers are able to infiltrate your personal and business systems and networks as well as how to protect your business from being hacked, contact us or call us today to speak with one of our experts. With decades of global experience working for financial institutions, corporates, start-ups, and enterprises, our college of CTOs can provide a wide variety of highly valuable insights on security and strategy that will help keep your business safe. 

“It is unclear how much data has been leaked, but the information could include customers and drivers personal information. What is particularly alarming is the ease with which hackers were able to gain entry to the VPNs,” according to one of our senior cybersecurity advisors’ Dave Jaggs.

Data breaches are becoming increasingly common

Data breaches are becoming increasingly common, with large companies like Facebook, Twitter, and now Uber suffering hacks in recent months. And while it’s easy to think that only big businesses are at risk, the truth is that any business could be a target. After all, hackers aren’t after any particular type of business; they’re after data that they can sell or use to commit fraud.

So, what can you do to protect your business?

First and foremost, you need to have a plan in place for how to respond to a data breach. This plan should include steps for notifying affected individuals, co-operating with law enforcement, and managing the PR fallout. Secondly, you need to make sure that your security systems are up-to-date and effective. This includes things like investing in antivirus software, multi-factor authentication and training your employees on cybersecurity best practices. Finally, you need to be vigilant about monitoring your systems for suspicious activity. If you suspect that your business has been hacked, act quickly to contain the damage and minimise the risk to your customers’ data.

No business is immune from data breaches, as the recent Uber hack has made all too clear. If your business hasn’t already put a plan in place for how to handle such an incident, now is the time to do so. By taking steps to protect your business now, you can help minimise the damage if (and when) a data breach occurs. To learn more about other ways that hackers are able to infiltrate your personal and business systems and networks as well as how to protect your business from being hacked, contact us or call us today to speak with one of our experts. With decades of global experience working for financial institutions, corporates, start-ups, and enterprises, our college of CTOs can provide a wide variety of highly valuable insights on security and strategy that will help keep your business safe. 

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Gareth Broekmann
Gareth Broekmann
Gareth Broekmann founded Charles Square (CSq) in 2014 with the goal of becoming a one-stop shop for technology solutions for companies in the finance sector and regulated businesses across the globe. With over 15 years of experience in Financial Services, as head of CSq Operations Gareth is dedicated to making sure clients get the most out of their IT investments so they can focus on what matters: their business. His commitment to sustainability has led him to spearhead initiatives related to climate positivity and ESG implementation. In addition, he is an avid golfer and supports 11 UK based charities, highlighting his passion for giving back to local communities. Through its innovative services and commitment to social responsibility, CSq offers an unmatched value proposition that promises to serve its customers efficiently while improving society at large.