The Personal Data Authority warns of the consequences of using e-mail incorrectly. A recent study shows that improperly sent emails are still one of the biggest causes of data breaches. As many as 16% of all reports arise because confidential data is sent to the wrong recipient. Whether it’s personal data or financial data if you make a typo in the e-mail address the harm is done.
Unconscious mistakes with big impact
Everyone sometimes receives an e-mail that is not meant for you. Or that your e-mail address accidentally appears in a cc, together with a whole list of other e-mail addresses. Due to these types of unintentional carelessness, confidential documents regularly end up with the wrong people. Such data breaches can have serious reputational and legal consequences.
What be the consequences?
For companies, data breaches can have serious financial and legal consequences. Violations of the GDPR or CCPA can result in fines of up to 20 million dollars or 4% of annual turnover. In addition, customers and partners may lose trust in the organization, directly impacting customer loyalty and business results. Companies may also face claims for damages from injured parties, leading to lengthy legal proceedings and additional costs.
There is also the risk of cybercriminals abusing leaked data. For example, a leaked email address can be used for phishing attacks, identity fraud or targeted cyber attacks on businesses. This can not only cause further damage, but also set off a chain reaction in which confidential information becomes increasingly widespread.
The safe choice
To completely eliminate this risk, it makes sense to stop using e-mail as the default channel for sharing sensitive information. Msafe Secure File Transfer provides a secure solution that works outside of traditional e-mail systems. This dramatically reduces the chance of human error, such as wrong recipients or accidentally sent files along with it. With Msafe, users can easily and securely share documents without relying on email. This not only prevents data breaches, but also ensures that sensitive information stays completely within secure systems and is only accessible by authorized individuals.
Reduce risks and raise awareness
In addition to secure tools, user awareness remains essential. Employees must be trained to recognize sensitive information and share data securely. Working safely does not consist of one measure on solution. It is a combination of behavior, awareness and the right tools.
