It’s a new year and technology continues to push the boundaries of what is possible. It’s also a battleground in the world of security, with new threats and solutions popping up with increasing regularity. At Blackbird, we’ve dusted off our crystal ball to make some security predictions for the upcoming year. Here are some security trends to watch out for in 2020 and beyond.
Privacy Concerns
People have a growing awareness and concern for how their personal data is being used and stored. Most businesses now handle sensitive client data and keeping that data safe is super important to the continued success of those businesses. Familiarize yourself with the Canadian Anti-Spam Legislation (CASL) and how it impacts on the client data you store. As criminals probe for weak points in security systems, this client data can come under threat. You don’t want your business to make the headlines for a data breach in 2020…
Point of Sale Targeting
While we all love the convenience of tap to pay, it does raise growing security concerns. The benefit for criminals to try to gain access to these devices is clear. One hack could instantly gain them access to thousands of credit/debit cards. Protecting against this threat involves carefully choosing your POS provider to ensure they boast strong security and encryption, as well as reliable security monitoring and incident reporting. Limit the number of staff who have access to the POS system, and ensure the ones who do are remaining vigilant for any suspicious behavior. Criminals love to find weak spots in security systems. Ensure your point of sale system isn’t vulnerable to growing threats.
Watch for Petty Crime
Crime is on the rise in Canada. Police-reported crime, as measured by the Crime Severity Index (CSI), increased for the fourth consecutive year in 2018. In urban areas, the rise has proven particularly steep with businesses reporting an increase in break-ins and theft. According to the same report, instances of fraud have increased 46 per cent in the last decade, while reported instances of shoplifting have increased 42 per cent since 2008. Consider improving your security infrastructure this year with an increased investment in keeping your business safe.
Security is Going Online
According to Kaspersky Lab, around 75 per cent of small businesses will move some of their infrastructure to the cloud in the next few years. Like night follows day, this means cloud-based security platforms and services are growing in importance. If you aren’t planning on taking some of your security online in 2020, at least familiarize yourself with the options and assess whether any of them are viable for your business in the medium term. The last thing you want is to get left behind down the road by advances in technology.
Let Blackbird Security Help
Need assistance with any aspect of your business security? Blackbird Security are Western Canada’s fastest growing security business. Contact us and we will be happy to help.
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