The Role of PSM in Data Privacy: Exploring How PSM Enhances Security Management and Mitigates Risks

For ensuring continuous data safety within any organization, security is a shared responsibility. 

The role of People Security Management (PSM) is pivotal in guaranteeing that safeguarding information transcends technological measures, recognizing that negligent human actions can potentially wreak havoc, impacting not only the organization but also individuals directly or indirectly associated with it.

A compelling case study illustrating the significance of PSM is the Uber cyberattack in 2022. 

During this incident, an alleged hacker successfully infiltrated Uber’s Amazon Web Services, Google Cloud accounts, and internal financial data using social engineering techniques. 

This occurrence underscores the reality that a single careless mistake by an employee can pose a substantial threat to the entire organization and its stakeholders. 

As highlighted in a CNBC report, MCShane- the vice president of strategy at cybersecurity firm Arctic Wolf said, “It’s proof once again that often the weakest link in your security defenses is the human.”

PSM and data privacy: what you should know

The management of data privacy is a meticulous undertaking, and it demands careful consideration, especially in light of statistics provided by Varonis: “As of 2021, a financial services employee has access to 11 million files.” This statistic underscores the gravity of data privacy, highlighting that it extends beyond a mere safety precaution.

In this landscape, the game of data privacy involves a strategic and vigilant approach, this is what shows People Security Management (PSM) as essential.

The unique AAPE model is the focal point of PSM, a comprehensive strategy actively securing an organization’s human element. 

This involves Assessing security risks, raising employee Awareness, implementing Protective measures, and Empowering staff in the security landscape.

PSM acknowledges that the human factor is critical in safeguarding sensitive information. It’s not just about technology; it’s about how people behave and interact with data.

In the context of data privacy, PSM becomes a key player.  PSM ensures that it actively educates and empowers employees, making them well-versed in security protocols and minimizing the risk of human-induced security incidents.

Considering the Varonis statistic, the integration of PSM becomes paramount. It’s not just about the vast number of files accessible to employees; it’s about actively managing and safeguarding this access diligently.

Recognizing that any unauthorized user could compromise the integrity of a legitimate employee’s account, the synergy between PSM and data privacy becomes evident. 

PSM acts as a proactive strategy, reinforcing the defense against potential breaches. In essence, understanding PSM is not just an additional layer; it’s a strategic imperative, working hand in hand with data privacy to fortify the organization’s overall security posture.

Enhancing Security Management: PSM practices to mitigate risks

In addressing human vulnerabilities within security management, every employee connected to an organization must recognize that they are potential targets, susceptible to becoming inadvertent loopholes in the next record-breaking cyberattack.

To guarantee safety and prevent compromise, each organization should establish people security practices such as listed below:

Employee Training and Awareness Programs:

This is an essential part of the PSM strategy, it ensures employees are well-informed and adequately prepared to recognize and respond effectively to potential security threats. At this juncture, every employee undergoes training to comprehend the human element in security vulnerabilities and the potential risks associated with being lured into compromising situations.

Access Control Policies:

Not all employees should have direct access to certain information. Adopting stringent access control is a crucial People Security Management practice that not only safeguards the organization but also establishes a secure environment, providing a fortified defense against potential security threats. Implementing identity verification measures as part of access control ensures that individuals accessing sensitive data are authenticated with a high level of certainty, adding an extra layer of protection to the organization’s data assets.

Creating an Incident Response Team:

An incident response team is a dedicated and highly trained group specifically tasked with handling security issues in the organization. The team identifies incident nature and scope, implements containment, eradicates threats, and orchestrates recovery. This ensures effective incident response.

Integration with Data Privacy Regulations:

PSM practices should align seamlessly with data privacy regulations. Given the increasing focus on privacy compliance globally, organizations need to integrate PSM measures with regulatory requirements to ensure a comprehensive and compliant approach to data protection.

Creating a Security-Conscious Culture:

Beyond formal practices, fostering a security-conscious culture is paramount. PSM extends beyond policies and procedures; it becomes a shared mindset where every employee actively contributes to the organization’s security. This cultural shift involves cultivating an environment where security is not just a requirement but a collective responsibility.

Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Integrating MFA into your PSM practice diminishes the likelihood of an account being easily compromised, bolstering overall security.

Data Privacy Training: Training sessions like this might delve into technicalities, even for non-technical employees, but their significance lies in contributing to PSM by fostering a security-conscious culture among individuals.

Regular Awareness Campaigns: Keeping employees informed about security updates aligns with PSM’s role in ensuring that individuals are aware of the latest security threats and protective measures. Conducting awareness campaigns aligns with PSM’s role in maintaining a security-conscious culture within the organization.

In Conclusion

Advice on People Security Management (PSM) is not restricted to large organizations or specific companies with a particular number of employees. Every company centered on data should prioritize investing in its security approach, and this extends beyond technology to include humans. When the practices of People Security are implemented, every employee begins to understand why and how each action they take can either ensure the safety of data or pose a vulnerable threat.