5 Ways to Protect Customer Privacy

When you’re focused on the growth and prosperity of your business, you don’t want anything to slow you down, or otherwise get in your way. The fact is, however, that not paying attention to data privacy and cybersecurity could create devastating problems for your company. Along with potential lawsuits, you could be forced to close your doors for good. Thankfully, there are ways to avoid that fate.

That includes implementing and enforcing a strong privacy policy, only collecting the data you truly need, educating employees and customers, and never underestimating the ever-present threat of a data breach. It’s also wise to partner with a dependable Florida IT outsourcing firm that can provide you with valuable advice and assistance. Use these tips to make customer privacy a priority for your business.

1) Perform a Data Privacy Audit

Many people talk about “big data,” and several claim a real affinity for it. However, this term is often misused and/or misunderstood. Simply stated, as a responsible business owner, it’s never wise to collect data solely for the sake of collection. Instead, you should strive to understand what your business really needs, and foster a sound data strategy based on those findings.

This should include legal ramifications — particularly when dealing with medical and financial information, or any data pertaining to minors. If accomplishing this sounds overly-complex or even frustrating, it’s nice to know that dependable IT support in Daytona Beach can assist you with data privacy needs and much more.

2) Keep Data Collection and Retention Low

As mentioned, data collection should only entail the information you actually need and will use. In fact, some cybersecurity experts stand by the phrase: “what you don’t have can’t hurt you.” In the event of a data breach, any stored data could be compromised.

To fully get a handle on this and other risk management techniques, it’s a good idea to partner with a firm well-versed in Daytona networks and all aspects of cybersecurity.

3) Post and Enforce a Privacy Policy

Sometimes, you’ve done your due diligence in terms of data protection, but the information is still subject to being leaked. This could be done accidentally or on purpose. Ensure that employees, vendors, and anyone that has access to customer data (no matter how small it may seem) know their responsibilities in keeping that information secure.

At the same time, you must post a privacy policy any time you’re accessing public data. That includes transactions through your website, apps, and similar.

4) Maintain an Open Forum  

Your customers are not only the backbone of your business, but they can also be valuable assets, as well. Satisfied clientele can easily become brand evangelists, and contribute to the promotion of your company’s goals.

That’s why it’s essential to keep the lines of communication open. In addition, you should give consumers choices on how and where their data is shared and stored. You could also provide a forum for concerns and compliments. This way, you’re “in the loop” on how clients and customers view and interact with your operations.

5) Secure Your Data at All Times

Informing customers and clients that their information has been compromised is not only embarrassing, but it could be detrimental to the future prosperity of your business. Along with legal challenges, when you lose public trust, it can be very difficult to attract and retain new and existing business. That’s why you need an IT partner who can help you with a variety of technology needs.

From Ormond Beach computer repair to Orlando IT support, we have solutions to help streamline your day-to-day business routine. That includes proactive IT management, cloud services, IT planning and budgeting, and more. We’ve also earned a stellar reputation as the premier source for computer repair in New Smyrna Beach. Contact us today to learn more about how Vann Data can help keep your private data secure.