Web Security

Something we all forget to consider in the mix of email and social networking conversations, is security. You may think that everyone is clear about what information your company considers proprietary. Information that is "secret" or needs to be kept private should be clearly defined. If it is important to your organization to keep certain information "under wraps", then, be sure to advise employees that information must not be disclosed. Again the ethical issues of openness and honesty present themselves.

Larger organizations can hire web security firms like Websense to monitor websites, email and even social media. Smaller organizations are at far more risk and may well be far more vulnerable to social networking faux pas. What can you do to to avoid unnecessary risk and loss of privacy and ensure that your important information is secure? Here are a few suggestions.

1) Implement confidentially agreements with employees

2) Insist that all company related information online is approved

3) Remind employees of the risks to both the company and themselves

4) Hire an online monitoring company

5) Set and implement social media guidelines as related to company business

The issue is larger than we think because everyone today is online. They are in conversations with friends, customers, vendors and even competitors. We are in a era of self publishing, as such, there is a wide range of information, both personal and corporate being published. The key, as with many things' is preparation and information. As your digital agency we suggest that you put in place a online security program. Once published, the company then must hold employee information sessions, this is key!

Your security is important, your staff will welcome the guidelines, and most importantly your organization's privacy and security will be well guarded. Remember loose lips sink ships. Today the risk (as with everything related to the internet) is amplified.

Michael Bickerton, JBM Interactive Ltd, August 2010