Bite-Size Business

Short snippets of practical, easy-to-implement business advice from Mackrell International legal experts around the world.

Data Masking: A New Tool Against Cyber Crime

James Carnie, data and privacy expert from Clendons in New Zealand, highlights the need for companies to ensure cyber-security plans are continually evolving to keep up with changing technology and increasingly sophisticated criminals. Data masking is an emerging trend being used by financial institutions to stay one step ahead of cyber-criminals. Even if the data is intercepted, it's not usable.

You can find out more in this bite-size clip: https://youtu.be/oY_o-p6IJ7U

Acceptable Use Policies" for Employees Help Protect Data

James Carnie, data and privacy expert from Clendons in New Zealand, spotlights the need for businesses of all sizes to have an AUP (Acceptable Use Policy) as part of their employment contracts. It only takes one person to click on one link, and your whole business is exposed. An AUP outlines the key issues about the importance of protecting data by avoiding pop-ups, malicious links and suspicious emails. It should be part of the employment agreement, so it is legally binding, making employees aware of these issues and comply with them.

This bite-size clip tells you more: https://youtu.be/wzBOofuypN8

Company Obligations to Explain Security Protocols

Alex Koskey, data and privacy expert from Tennessee law firm Baker Donelson highlights the increasing obligations on companies for clarity on cyber-security in their annual reporting. Cyber-security issues are becoming a key tenet of every business, with a significant amount of liability attached. Company boards are becoming more attentive to privacy and cyber-security issues, recognizing that there are going to be stronger reporting obligations and greater demand for that information from shareholders in future.

Alex’s bite-size advice is here: https://youtu.be/IMeej1Oh-FQ

Why you Need a BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) Policy

Stephanie Sparks, data and privacy expert from Hoge Fenton in California, strongly recommends that businesses have a BYOD or Bring Your Own Device Policy. More and more employees are using their own devices to access company emails and work systems, but that comes with potential risks and businesses need to protect themselves and their employees. Employers need to have a BYOD Policy to ensure that employees understand that they still need to comply with company privacy policies in order to protect the organization.

You can hear Stephanie’s insight here: https://youtu.be/ylETtUTbJn0

Why Train Your Employees on Data Security

Stephanie Sparks, data and privacy expert from Hoge Fenton in California, provides essential business advice on staff training and the need for “penetration testing” of your company’s data network. You can have the most robust IT and security system, but if your employees do not understand the company’s obligations to protect personal data, they can become your weakest link!

You can learn more here: https://youtu.be/lbVMVpXk9sI