From social security numbers to financial records and medical information, digital products handle all kinds of sensitive data in our daily lives.
That's why 9 out of 10 people believe that online privacy is crucial!
Ignoring cybersecurity risks—such as cyber threats, phishing attacks, suspicious activities and unauthorized access—can lead to potential data breaches and harm to business reputation.
Let's discuss robust security measures and data protection strategies to keep up with high standards of security and privacy.
3 Cybersecurity Fundamentals
1. Data Encryption
For starters, data encryption consists of protecting data by using a code that can only be discovered through a unique digital key.
Data Encryption protocols are used to protect sensitive data from being stolen, changed or compromised.
Depending on the project requirements, there are different data encryption algorithms, such as:
- AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) for wireless networks, databases, communications, data and password storage.
- RSA (Rivest-Shamir-Adleman) for secure data transmission, key exchange and digital signatures.
- ED25519 for secure data exchange, single-signature verification, batch verification, fast signing and fast key generation.
- SHA (Secure Hash Algorithm) to check data integrity and authenticity.
2. Project Adaptability
To ensure a reliable and trustworthy product, teams can also implement several key security measures.
For instance, multi-factor authentication adds an extra layer of protection, as it requires users to confirm their identity using methods like passwords and one-time codes.
There are also role management systems that assign permissions based on user roles— complemented by Access Control Lists (ACLs) that specify who can access resources and what actions they can take.
Likewise, role-based access control (RBAC) further limits system access to authorized users only.
These practices, among other ones specifically tailored to each company’s needs, create a robust security framework that can enhance product integrity and trustworthiness.
3. Team Training
As a Full-Cycle Product Development company, we also pay special attention to training our team on cybersecurity best practices.
This continuous training includes recognized privacy regulation standards like the OWASP (Open Web Application Security Project).
Keeping our team updated on the latest best security practices is vital for staying ahead in the security landscape.
It’s also paramount to embrace a culture of security, recognizing the importance of regular audits and using robust security frameworks.
Top 5 Data Security Strategies
1. TLS Technology
TLS (Transport Layer Security) is a cryptographic protocol designed to ease data security and privacy over the Internet.
This protocol aims to create a secure connection between a client (like your web browser) and a server (like a website).
Applying these security measures to all products and servers helps cipher transit data and protect communications between the front end and the back end.
2. User Authentication
There are several robust authentication and authorization methods, such as layered access control and least privilege.
These authentication methods allow the protection of data access and sensible functionalities from unauthorized users in all interactions.
3. Access Control
There are several tools and platforms, such as Google Workspace, to manage user access to resources, platforms, and overall digital services.
Further, to manage physical equipment, there are tools such as Kandji—used by our team!— to access management to mobile and desktop devices.
Additionally, development environments like AWS and GitHub foster strict control of sensitive data, critical assets and intellectual property.
Only authorized user roles can access that data, which helps avoid potential security incidents and cybersecurity threats.
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4. Zero Trust Architecture
Another effective strategy is the Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA), which states, "never trust, always verify."
ZTA focuses on continuous verification by assuming that no user, device or network is inherently trustworthy.
As a result, ZTA mandates rigorous authentication and authorization for every access request to safeguard digital products and users' privacy.
5. Data Collection
Last but not least, the principle of minimal data collection involves collecting and storing only the absolute minimum amount of personal information.
By limiting the data footprint, teams can significantly reduce potential vulnerabilities and loss of customer trust.
Top 3 Security Regulations
1. ISO 20071
ISO 20071 is a leading international standard that provides a robust framework for establishing, implementing, maintaining and continually improving information Security Management Systems.
Embracing this certification shows companies’ commitment to robust security practices.
As a result, teams can potentially attract new business opportunities and reduce severe consequences, such as hefty fines.
2. Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards
Payment Card Industry Data Security Standards, or PCI DSS, are security policies and procedures for optimizing the protection of cash, debit and credit card transactions.
This security posture is a key component for financial institutions, as it safeguards cardholders against the misuse of their financial data.
It's worth noting that PCI DSS is a global protection policy mandated by major card brands like Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover and JCB.
3. Regulatory Requirements
Every digital product should have a holistic approach to key regulations and industry standards according to its market, from the healthcare industry to FinTech, such as:
- Health Insurance Portability and Accountability ACT (HIPPA)
- Center for Internet Security (CIS)
- National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) 800-53
- NIST Cybersecurity Fundamentals (CSF)
- California Consumer Privacy Act CCPA
Compliance with the regulatory landscape and privacy laws is a legal obligation and should be part of your product strategy.
Businesses that prioritize security compliance efforts can build trust with their users, mitigate security threats, avoid financial losses and legal consequences and ensure business continuity.
Conclusion
Comprehensive approaches to data security strategy aim to create more secure User Experiences.
We are a UX-driven Product Development Agency with more than 14 years of experience.
We know the role of privacy and security in Product Development!
We’re also committed to staying ahead of emerging potential threats.
Reach out if you're eager to shape the future with us!
