Data Privacy Day highlights urgent need for new strategies

As Data Privacy Day dawns, the spotlight is once again on the ever-evolving landscape of data protection, emphasising the critical importance for organisations to secure sensitive information amid increasing cyber threats.

The annual event serves as a reminder of the need for comprehensive data privacy strategies that integrate seamlessly into organisational frameworks.

Carl D'Halluin, Chief Technology Officer at Datadobi, underscores the paramount importance of effective data management.

D'Halluin commented, "The number one data privacy best practice is simple: ensure the right data is in the right place at the right time. Throughout its lifecycle, data should be protected and only accessible as needed."

He highlighted the significant balancing act organisations face between utilising data as a competitive edge while also regarding it as a potential liability if mismanaged. He further added, "Effective data management optimises business intelligence, enables smarter decision-making, and provides a competitive edge."

The conversation on data privacy has become particularly urgent, given the rise in sophisticated cyberattacks and the rapid adoption of artificial intelligence technologies.

Karl Bagci, Head of IT at Exclaimer, notes the shift towards 'Bring Your Own AI' models which, while offering operational efficiencies, also introduce vulnerabilities. "Protecting data now requires a shared responsibility model where companies work closely with their vendors," he advised. Bagci emphasises the necessity of embedding security as a foundational principle within organisations to uphold customer trust and operational resilience.

The role of Privacy Enhancing Technologies (PETs) is being increasingly recognised as fundamental to safeguarding data without compromising on innovation. Ellison Anne Williams, CEO and Founder of Enveil, advocates for the integration of PETs into business strategies.

"Organisations that truly prioritise data will incorporate PETs as a foundational, business-enabling tool," she stated, pointing out the dual benefits of advancing AI capabilities while ensuring robust data privacy measures.

Adding another dimension to the discourse, Edwin Weijdema, Field CTO EMEA & Cybersecurity Lead at Veeam, observes the regulatory shifts with new directives like NIS2 and DORA.

These frameworks place heighten accountability on corporate leaders to demonstrate data resilience. "We've seen corporate accountability given increasing weight when it comes to data resilience thanks to NIS2," Weijdema stated, drawing attention to a required change in perspective where data resilience is no longer just a cybersecurity requirement but a crucial business differentiator.

As organisations prepare to meet data protection challenges, the consensus among experts seems clear: data privacy must be an ongoing commitment, not just a consideration on Data Privacy Day.

These insights illustrate the multifaceted nature of data protection, blending strategic innovation with rigorous security measures to not only meet regulatory demands but also to earn and maintain consumer trust in a digital age.