How do you handle data retention and disposal after vulnerability scanning?

2 Encrypt your data at rest and in transit

To protect your data from unauthorized access, modification, or deletion, you should encrypt it both at rest and in transit. Encryption adds an extra layer of security to your data by making it unreadable without a key. You should use strong encryption algorithms and keys, and store them securely. You should also encrypt your backups and archives, and use secure protocols for transferring your data.

3 Delete your data securely and timely

When you no longer need your data, you should delete it securely and timely. Deleting your data means removing it from your storage devices, backups, archives, and any other locations where it may exist. However, simply deleting your data may not be enough, as it may still be recoverable by forensic tools. You should use secure deletion methods, such as shredding, wiping, or overwriting, to ensure your data is permanently erased. You should also follow your data retention policy and schedule for deleting your data.

4 Monitor and audit your data activities

To ensure your data is handled properly, you should monitor and audit your data activities. Monitoring and auditing can help you detect and prevent any data breaches, leaks, or misuse. You should use tools and processes that can track and record your data actions, such as scanning, storing, accessing, modifying, and deleting. You should also review and analyze your data logs and reports regularly, and take corrective actions if needed.

5 Train and educate your staff

One of the most important aspects of data management is human factor. You should train and educate your staff on how to handle data securely and responsibly. You should provide them with clear guidelines and procedures for data retention and disposal, and make them aware of the risks and consequences of data mishandling. You should also enforce your data policies and rules, and hold your staff accountable for their data actions.

6 Review and update your data practices

As technology and regulations evolve, so should your data practices. You should review and update your data retention and disposal practices periodically, and make sure they are still relevant, effective, and compliant. You should also evaluate your data needs and challenges, and look for ways to improve your data security and efficiency. You should also seek feedback and input from your stakeholders, such as customers, partners, and regulators.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?