INDUSTRY NEWS
Workplace ID Theft on the Rise
Birth dates, Social Security numbers, bank account numbers, credit card information – the list of types of personal data stored in a workplace could go on and on; a fact that doesn't go unnoticed by identity thieves.
According to a recent study by Michigan State University, more than half of all identify thefts occur in the workplace. The annual cost of such identity thefts to consumers and corporations is about $50 billion.
While criminals continue to develop innovative techniques for stealing personal data, organizations are becoming more aware of the problem.
Data security experts offer the following tips for companies seeking to combat workplace identity theft:
- Stop viewing data security as solely an IT issue; it's a responsibility that should be focused on by the entire organization.
- Be mindful of where sensitive data is stored and who has access to it. Data encryption, limiting access and privacy training are all strategies that have been utilized effectively.
- Data minimization across an organization - collect only necessary information in as few places as possible and only keep it as long as it is necessary.
- Implement a thorough background screening program. The best way to prevent identity theft inside jobs is to know exactly who you are hiring and retaining.
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(Source: http://www.hreonline.com)
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