Big data has been a game changer in recent years. Experts around the country predict that the market will grow faster than anybody could have predicted back in 2013. While there are a lot of benefits, there are also some challenges that must be addressed. Data security is one of the biggest problems that data scientists need to address. Concerns about data security are mounting as society becomes more dependent on big data, but data transit security protocols can help.
Growth of Big Data Highlights Data Security
While the big data market remains a relatively new entity, it has enjoyed tremendous growth over the course of the last seven years. It’s market value was estimated at $7.6 billion back in 2011, for example, whereas seven years later this has peaked at a hefty $42 billion. As the market and demand for big data has increased, however, so too has the risk posed by cyber theft. In fact, business cyber crime increased by 63% during 2017, while this figure is expected to increase further in the years ahead. With these points in mind, it’s crucial that we’re able to transfer our data efficiently and safely in the current security climate. This starts by ensuring that the type of wire strippers available through RS are in top working order, as this prevents you from damaging components and hardware over time. What are the biggest challenges with data security? Many people believe that data security is all about safeguarding data on your current servers. But happens when data is transferred from one portal to another? This is when data is most vulnerable. Hackers know this and try to capture it as it is transported from one server to another. Berkeley University has some guidelines on this. Follow these tips to avoid this problem.
1. Use Dropbox to Share and Transfer Data
Once you’ve secured your hardware, the next step is to consider the most secure platforms for hosting data transfers. Dropbox is one of the most secure and accessible platforms available, as it’s based in the Cloud and enables users to share files or entire folders with others in real-time. This platform is particularly effective when sharing larger files, which cannot be shared through email or more traditional mediums. Security is also assured through this method, as only people you receive an invitation will be able to access the data and make authorised changes. With a paid Dropbox Pro account, you can also password protect individual files and folders while setting the link to expire automatically within a predetermined period of time.
2. Use PGP or GPG Programs
Next up we reference so-called PGP and GPG programs, which leverage public key cryptography to send files remotely and securely. This is achieved without having to distribute passwords online, as “public keys” are instead used to encrypt documents and “private keys” utilised to decrypt them. Your private key never leaves your computer, while only authorised individuals can access your public key to send and receive files. The only downside with this method is that it can be tricky to set-up for anyone who lacks technological knowledge or understanding. It can be done by installing the cross-platform email client Mozilla Thunderbird, while the free add-on Enigmail will provide you with step-by-step instructions. While you may be inclined to use Dropbox if you’re not tech-savvy, this is an ideal alternative for anyone with technological experience or knowledge.
3. TR
We finish with OTR (or Off the Record) messaging, which is a feature than can be added to existing communications and cross-platform apps such as Pidgin. With this method of data transfer, messages are encrypted before they leave your machine, enabling you to safely send files to your chosen recipient. At the same time, you can utilise security codes to make sure that nobody is lying in wait to intercept your messages. Often referred to as the ‘man-in-the-middle’ attack, this remains one of the most common hacking and cyber theft techniques in the western world. As we’ve said, OTR is primarily used as a plug-in for Pidgin, but it’s also a diverse tool that has wider applications. In short, it is also built into other messenger clients such as Signal for Android and iOS, and we expect this trend to continue in the future.
Protect Data As it is Transferred
Securing your data while it is transferred from one point to another is crucial. Make sure that you understand the importance of encrypting it before transporting it.