Mar 09, 2016

Mobile devices and other hardware are being increasingly used across businesses to access, manage and transfer critical information. However, while our equipment has advanced beyond traditional laptops, the programs we use to send our documents are taking a lot longer to change. In fact, some companies likely still rely solely on emails, which has been proven time and again to be unsecure and inefficient for long-term file sharing purposes. As businesses look to further improve their file transfer process, security should take precedence in their efforts.

The danger is imminent

Breaches among major organizations like Target and Anthem serve as reminders for how much risk businesses are taking with their information. However, despite these dangers, companies still aren't prepared for the potential that such an event could happen to them. A recent Ipswitch survey found that 61 percent of IT professionals are using unsecure cloud-file sharing services, despite the fact that 76 percent placed importance on being able to securely transfer and share files. To make matters worse, although 25 percent of respondents have transfer policies in place, they aren't well enforced. These disparities show that IT and organizational leaders are largely disconnected and must come together in order to create and implement strong policies for data protection.

Establish processes and tools

How secure are your files currently? Many organizations believe that if they send their documents over email, that they're inherently safe. However, not much is standing in the way of a potential hacker other than a password and even these can often be easily breached. With a file transfer and archival solution, businesses can have peace of mind that their documents are better protected. With these tools, you can establish information rights, designating which users are allowed to access various items. These capabilities will be especially critical for keeping sensitive company material safe.

It can also be important to update your internal systems to ensure that employees are using your tools as intended. ITBusinessEdge noted that many staff members don't use company approved collaboration tools because they simply aren't convenient. Therefore, it's critical to consistently evaluate how efficient and functional your tools are.

"Many times approved collaboration tools don't meet desired user experience because of limitations of outdated internal systems," ITBusinessEdge stated. "Not only will improving outdated internal systems help increase the usability of approved collaboration tools, but it will also help meet legal and IT requirements hitting enterprises today it's a win-win situation!"

Organizations are putting themselves at risk by using outdated and unprotected methods for file transfers. The potential for compromised data is no longer a mere possibility, it's become a probability. For this reason, you'll require a comprehensive solution that protects files and gives employees the convenience they want. Luckily, businesses can start preparing their systems today by using tools like Memeo C1 that will give them the flexibility and security they need to keep their files safe while meeting user needs.