Have the lessons been learnt and are businesses more aware of the need to protect their most valuable asset – data?
In 2009, the issue of data security came to the fore, with cases such as the theft of Bord Gáis laptops, the statistic of 9,000 USB sticks being found in launderettes across the UK and the loss of data during the recent floods serving to further increase people’s awareness of the need to protect data.
According to Eoin Blacklock, managing director, keepITsafe, we need to get serious about data security, which should be at the top of any business agenda in 2010. He points to a recent survey carried out by Storage magazine, which reveals that while 37pc of businesses actually test their tape backup, 77pc are unable to recover their data from the tapes.
Blacklock says data-loss disasters can be prevented with some research and know how.
“In relation to the recent flooding, companies that did not have a suitable backup plan in place, or were using tape as their means of backing up, had an extremely low chance of recovering their data, if water damage occurred.
“The reality that many businesses are facing in relation to their data is incomprehensible as many will suffer complete data loss with little chance of restoring it.”
How can you protect your data in 2010?
He recommends putting a backup plan in place to coincide with your disaster recovery plan.
“Always have a backup of their data away from your office in the event of fire, theft or flooding. Don’t rely on chance – people need to get real about their data and start backing up offsite now.”
Blacklock says IT managers and business owners need to give serious consideration to their backup method of choice.
“USB keys, although serving their purpose as a storage solution, are too easily lost. Business owners in 2010 need to be able to stand over their data security and make sure that all critical data is safe and secure in the event of any disaster.”
By Carmel Doyle
Photo: Eoin Blacklock, managing director, keepITsafe.
