Working with an external IT vendor, how do you navigate a client's request for sensitive data access?

Well having an external IT vendor is bit complicated when it comes to data part with respect to client, detailed security navigation has to be done. Multiple checks with all over data flow is required. A person should have a track of data flow and proper privacy compliance should be in place. Not to forget about the NDA which is most important because with sensitive data we cannot take any chances.

Handling a client's sensitive data request when using an external IT vendor requires careful navigation. Prioritize data privacy compliance by understanding data sensitivity and client consent. Review NDAs and contracts and ensure employee training on data handling. Implement strict security controls, like access management and encryption. Data protection in SLAs should be included, and vendor audits should be conducted. Maintain open communication with the client and minimize data sharing.

Begin by understanding why the client needs access and how it aligns with the project’s goals. In a recent case, I carefully evaluated the request, weighing the client’s needs against potential security risks. We then implemented strict access controls and encrypted data transmission, which ensured security while meeting the client’s requirements.

When collaborating with an external IT vendor, it's crucial to handle sensitive data access requests with the utmost care: - Clearly Define Access: Specify exactly what data the vendor requires and for what purpose. - Enforce Strong Security: Mandate robust security protocols such as encryption and access controls. - Obtain Necessary Authorizations: Secure written consent from the client and verify the vendor's credentials. - Monitor Access Continuously: Regularly review access logs and detect any suspicious activity. Be Specific, Secure and Transparent By adhering to these guidelines, you can safeguard your clients' sensitive data and maintain trust in your organization.

Before granting any data access, it's essential to thoroughly assess the client's needs. Why do they require access to sensitive data? Even though the org is using external IT resources, when it comes to data governance, the buck stops with the organization and its leaders. It is important for the organization to determine data control and responsibility so as to ensure only the right individuals can access data on a need to know basis. A data owner needs to be identified and the data owner works with the data steward to ensure integrity and confidentiality as well as who can access the data, how, and when.

Define access with your security council, you are able to share sensitive information over a teams call, thus not sharing logs with the vendor.

Establish a service provision contract with express confidentiality clauses and data handling in accordance with data privacy laws and regulations. Establish the use of well-defined processes for data transfer and usage. Use technologies such as DRM, dynamic watermarks, and other mechanisms to prevent data leakage and exfiltration.

To determine granting or denying access to sensitive data, take into consideration several factors such as:- 1. legal regulations, potential litigation and risks when data falls into the wrong hands 2. Confidentiality policies. Are there Non disclosure agreements (NDA), need to know (NTK) clauses, other data classifications that determine who should or can’t be granted access, e.g., classified info or CUI data which would need security classifications of various levels, e.g., secret and top secret 3. Governmental regulations and Department of State guidelines like ITAR for the USA 4. Foreign regulations like GDRP 5. Establish controls to limit and guard against wrongful access to your data 6. Encryption, storage, and retrieval

Training, requesting knowledge, and signing the Information Security and Data Privacy Policy in relationships with suppliers, interviewers, and employees. Similarly, with the policy - Code of Conduct and Ethics.

"Two alternatives that could implement even more security in this context are: End-to-End Encryption (E2EE) data transfer: This ensures that the data is encrypted at the source and can only be decrypted by the final recipient, providing an additional layer of protection against interceptions throughout the entire route. Use of a file transfer protocol with Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Integrating MFA into the file transfer process strengthens security by ensuring that only authorized users can initiate or receive transfers, reducing the risk of unauthorized acces

Para uma transferência segura certifique-se que o fornecedor atende os requisitos de seguran?a e esteja ciente das políticas do cliente. Certifique-se de que o fornecedor concorda em seguir essas políticas. Inicie solicitando documenta??o das políticas de seguran?a e procedimentos de respostas a incidentes para o fornecedor. Acordos SLA e NDA s?o necessários. Controle de acesso com menor privilégio possível, autentica??o multifatorial e usar canais e protocolos seguros para transferência. Usar ferramentas de seguran?a de monitoramento e detec??es de intrus?es, plano de identifica??o, classifica??o e conten??o de incidentes.

It is equally important that all monitoring be integrated with compliance management systems, providing detailed and auditable records that can be reviewed in the event of disputes, investigations, or security audits. This approach not only protects the data but also ensures that security practices are aligned with cybersecurity best practices and regulations. This revised version offers a more robust and integrated strategy for monitoring and access management, enhancing the ability to prevent and respond to security incidents.

"Always update policies, standards, and terms with current regulations and applicable laws, as well as with the relevant ISOs, such as ISO 27001:2022, ISO 27701:2020, ISO 27017:2016 for provider or client, ISO 27018, among others."