7-step InfoSec checklist for HR leaders embracing AI

?? This newsletter comes straight from the desk of Seema Pathak , our powerhouse AVP of Data Privacy Risk and Compliance.

Let’s address the elephant in the room: AI and your concerns about its data security.

You’re excited to bring AI into your HR game , but with great innovation comes great responsibility. How do you make the most of AI without letting your organization’s data from falling into the wrong hands?

We get it. And we’ve got your back.

At inFeedo, we've partnered with over 300 brands to enable them to adopt AI without sacrificing data security. And we’re ready to share our learnings with you.

In this newsletter, I’m sharing my ultimate InfoSec checklist for AI adoption, packed with key learnings and best practices. This checklist will help you keep your data secure while ensuring you don't fall behind in terms of adopting innovative technology.

Let’s dive into how you can make your company safe and AI-ready.

7-step InfoSec checklist for AI adoption

1. Know your data and own your game

Know exactly what kinds of data you'll be sharing with your chosen AI platform — be it mundane personal details or basic employee info to sensitive org data.

Next, visualize how your data moves through the AI system from input to storage to output. This helps you spot any sneaky vulnerabilities. (My personal go-to method is a data flow diagram. )

?? In a nutshell: Knowing exactly what you're sharing (and how) is your first line of defence.

2. Swipe right on the right platform

If they’re not A+ in security, swipe left.

Make sure you don’t get catfished by shiny AI platforms with poor data security practices. Run your own assessment checks. Go through their security compliance certifications. I recommend the following 3-step checklist when it comes to onboarding new vendors.

?? In a nutshell: Snag an AI vendor that’s not just smart, but also tightly data-secured.

3. Guard the gates with access controls

It's time to channel your inner bouncer.

Implement strict user access controls and roll out the red carpet only for those who truly need it. And don’t forget to set up multi-factor authentication (MFA).

Your access controls need some TLC too. Conduct regular audits to ensure only the right people have access to sensitive data.

?? In a nutshell: Keep the guest lists tight and the gatecrashers out.

4. Plan, drill, and protect like a pro

Adopting AI is exciting but it comes with responsibilities. You need to ensure your data doesn’t end up in the wrong hands.

Here are three golden rules I recommend to ensure your data remains as secure as a bank vault:

?? In a nutshell: Lock it, cloak it, and ask first - that’s how you protect data.

5. Develop a smart, security-savvy team

Craft policies tailored to responsible AI usage, leaving no room for ambiguity or misinterpretation. These guidelines should be sturdy as a fortress wall, so everyone in your team knows the rules of handling sensitive data.

Keep your team equipped with the latest security best practices and updates through regular training sessions. These sessions should ideally cover industry standards and emerging threats beyond just internal policies.

?? In a nutshell: Staying educated is staying safe.

6. Keep your employees in the loop about your data practices

Let users know how their data is being used and protected. When employees understand the ins and outs, they're more likely to feel confident and comfortable engaging with the AI platform to improve their output .

Create channels for them to express concerns and provide feedback. Listening and adapting to their input can help you refine your processes and align with user expectations.

?? In a nutshell: Be transparent with employees about how their data is being used.

7. Stay ready and stay sharp

Regularly assess potential AI-related security threats to stay ahead of them. Develop a robust AI incident response plan and conduct regular drills to check effectiveness.

And lastly, consider getting cyber insurance. It can be a lifesaver if things go wrong.

?? In a nutshell: Stay prepared for all situations to keep your company safe and savvy.