It is important to protect your data when dealing with sensitive information. Ensure that you only share the data to those who need it. This will lessen the risk that a significant portion your data declines to the incorrect hands in the case of a breach or leak. Use devices that prevent unauthorised editing of files. There are applications that can secure files in the event that you and a third party are working in an Excel spreadsheet, for instance it guards against malicious or accidental modifications as well as ensures that numbers are accurate.

Watermarking your files is also beneficial. It adds an extra layer of security, and allows you to track who is facilitating global collaborations through virtual data spaces using your files. You can also add an expiration date to download links and then deactivate access after a set period. This will prevent employees or hackers without authorization to keep personal data longer than is required by company policies. Create a manual that will guide your staff in how to delete a file repeatedly.

The sensitive information stored on your devices, irrespective of whether it’s student information, research data or carefully designed spreadsheets and other files, is extremely valuable. If you make a mistake, your confidential data could end up to anyone to snoop on, causing financial loss or damage to your reputation.