Preventing Unintentional Data Exposure ft. Bryon Singh, RailWorks Corporation

Preventing Unintentional Data Exposure ft. Bryon Singh, RailWorks Corporation

By Steve Gold
Posted in Security
On July 16, 2024

In an era where data breaches and cybersecurity incidents dominate headlines, unintentional data exposure remains a significant threat to organizational security. Training workforce members to be aware of the causes for unintentional data exposure is essential. I’m going to cover common causes using factual pop culture references to highlight the importance of these practices.

Mis-Delivery of Sensitive Data

Imagine the chaos that ensues in "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets" when Harry receives the wrong message through an enchanted letter. In the real world, mis-delivery of sensitive data can cause similar confusion and potential breaches.

Employees must be vigilant when sending sensitive information via email, mail, or other communication channels. It is crucial to double-check recipients' addresses and use secure methods of communication whenever possible. Training should include guidelines on verifying recipient information and employing encryption for sensitive emails.

Losing a Portable End-User Device

In "Mission: Impossible," Ethan Hunt uses gadgets and devices that contain critical information. If one of these devices were lost or stolen, the consequences would be dire. Similarly, losing a portable end-user device like a laptop, smartphone, or USB drive can lead to significant data exposure.

Employees should be trained to:

  • Use strong passwords and encryption on all devices
  • Avoid storing sensitive data on portable devices unless absolutely necessary
  • Report lost or stolen devices immediately to the IT department
  • Use remote wipe capabilities to erase data from lost devices

Publishing Data to Unintended Audiences

In "Spider-Man: Far From Home", Peter Parker accidentally shares sensitive information with the wrong people, leading to disastrous consequences. Publishing data to unintended audiences can occur in various ways, such as sharing documents with incorrect access permissions or posting confidential information on public platforms.

To prevent such incidents, employees should be educated on:

  • The importance of checking and setting appropriate access controls before sharing documents
  • Using secure collaboration tools that restrict unauthorized access
  • Reviewing data before publishing to ensure no sensitive information is included

Practical Training Tips

  1. Real-Life Scenarios: Use real-life examples and pop culture references to make training relatable and engaging. Simulate scenarios where data is mis-delivered, devices are lost, or information is shared with the wrong audience to demonstrate the potential consequences.
  2. Regular Updates: Keep training sessions up-to-date with the latest best practices and threat intelligence. As new threats emerge, update training materials to reflect these changes.
  3. Interactive Workshops: Conduct interactive workshops where employees can practice identifying and mitigating potential data exposure risks. Use role-playing exercises to reinforce learning.
  4. Clear Policies: Establish and enforce clear policies regarding data handling, device security, and information sharing. Ensure that employees understand and adhere to these policies.
  5. Continuous Learning: Encourage a culture of continuous learning by providing resources such as online courses, articles, and webinars on data security best practices.

Unintentional data exposure can have severe consequences for any organization. By training workforce members to be aware of common causes, organizations can significantly reduce the risk of data breaches.

Start your training today and empower your workforce to safeguard your organization's data from unintentional exposure.

Here’s a link to the Security Awareness Skills Training Policy Template provided free of charge from the fine folks at the Center for Internet Security: https://www.cisecurity.org/insights/white-papers/security-awareness-skills-training-policy-template-for-cis-control-14

Here are some details on this specific Control/Safeguard. If you want more info, DM me.

CIS Control 14 – Security Skills Awareness & Training

Establish and maintain a security awareness program to influence behavior among the workforce to be security conscious and properly skilled to reduce cybersecurity risks to the enterprise.

Implementation Group 1

CIS Safeguard 14.5 - Train Workforce Members on Causes of Unintentional Data Exposure

Train workforce members to be aware of causes for unintentional data exposure. Example topics include mis-delivery of sensitive data, losing a portable end-user device, or publishing data to unintended audiences.

Steve Gold

Steve Gold

Steve Gold is the Cybersecurity Practice Director at Gotham Technology Group (Gotham). He is responsible for providing the vision and thought leadership to expand Gotham’s legacy of success and build a world-class cybersecurity practice. He works closely with Gotham’s customers, industry partners, and subject matter experts to develop relevant solutions for Gotham’s clients and prospects.

Prior to joining Gotham, Steve worked with the Center for Internet Security (CIS), where he expanded the global reach, revenue, and impact of the CIS Benchmarks, CIS Controls, and CIS Hardened Images. He led the efforts to promote the CIS portfolio of low-cost and no-cost cybersecurity products and services that help private and public organizations stay secure in the connected world. He grew a team of security specialists from 12 to over 40 to assist organizations with implementing security best practices in their continual journey of cybersecurity maturity.

During his more than 20-year career, Steve led teams responsible for developing and implementing technology solutions at some of the industry’s most recognized companies such as Varonis, VMware, Dell & Wyse Technology

Steve is a frequent speaker/moderator at industry conferences and webinars, covering a wide array of information security topics. He resides and works remotely in Baltimore, MD.