Taking steps to protect data in your possession can go a long way toward preventing a security breach. Nevertheless, breaches can happen. Here’s how you can reduce the impact on your business, your employees, and your customers:

Have a plan in place to respond to security incidents.

Designate a senior member of your staff to coordinate and implement the response plan.

If a computer is compromised, disconnect it immediately from the Network or Internet.

Some of the most effective security measures; using strong passwords, locking up sensitive paperwork, training your staff, etc. will cost you next to nothing and you’ll find free or low cost security tools at non-profit websites dedicated to data security.

Furthermore, it’s less expensive in the long run to invest in better data security than to lose the goodwill of your customers, defend yourself in legal actions, and face other possible consequences of a data breach. Watch these free videos on identity theft. CLICK HERE

Investigate security incidents immediately and take steps to close off existing vulnerabilities or threats to personal information.

Consider who to notify in the event of an incident, both inside and outside your organization. You may need to notify your customers, law enforcement, credit bureaus, and other businesses that may be affected by the breach. In addition, many states and the federal bank regulatory agencies have laws or guidelines addressing data breaches. Consult your attorney.