The Pros and Cons of Using Technology for Protecting Data Security and Privacy

Technology Use for Protecting Data Security and Privacy

With the rising adoption of technology, data privacy and security have become a significant concern for businesses and individuals. As the digital world is evolving constantly, the ways people secure their data are changing as well. While using the technology to handle businesses is beneficial, it may often bring inconvenience as well. This blog will delve deeper into the fact of how the usage of technology is both advantageous and harmful for maintaining data security.

Advantages of Technology for Data Security and Privacy

Some of the advantages of using technology for data security and privacy are discussed below:

1) Enhanced Encryption: The capacity of technology to offer strong encryption algorithms is one of its key benefits. Data is converted into incomprehensible code by encryption, making it incredibly difficult for unauthorised parties to understand (Kolesnikov, 2023). This helps to protect private information both during transmission and storage. With time, encryption techniques have improved, resulting in enhanced data protection.

2) Access Controls: Technology enables the setting of access controls, granting authorised individuals specific privileges and limiting access to sensitive data. By employing usernames, passwords, biometric systems, and multi-factor authentication, organisations can closely monitor who has access to what information. Secure data storage secures the communication tools and platform to enable the collaborative action to share sensitive data without worrying about unauthorised access or leakage of stored data (Sun, 2020). These steps drastically reduce the possibility of data breaches and illegal access.

3) Data Backup and Recovery: Technology-based solutions provide dependable methods for data recovery and backup. Organisations may routinely make backup copies of their data and store it securely, reducing possible loss from technology malfunction, malicious attacks, or natural catastrophes. The robust data security system measures the cyber-attack and the competitive edge in today's world (Hahn et al. 2019). Automated recovery systems may also speed up data retrieval, decreasing downtime and the effects of any security events.

Disadvantages of Technology for Data Security and Privacy

Some of the disadvantages of using technology for data security and privacy are discussed below:

1) Increased Vulnerability to Cyber Threats: As technology develops, so do the techniques used by hackers. Hackers get better at exploiting new vulnerabilities since they are continuously being found. ?Every individual is vulnerable to potential vulnerabilities and threats like phishing, malware, ransomware, and social engineering assaults because of the growing dependence on technology for data security and privacy; thus, it is crucial to upgrade security measures to counter new threats continuously (Sun, 2020). The below given image depicts ransom attacks over the years.

(Source: Kolesnikov, 2023)

2) Complexity and User Error: Although technology offers means to safeguard data, human participation increases the possibility of mistakes. Users could find it challenging to appropriately apply complex security measures, such as setting firewalls or generating secure passwords. Inadvertent errors or oversights might result in security holes that could be exploited (Yang, 2020). The below given picture depicts password use is common practice, as people find it complexed to remember passwords when logging through different devices.

(Source: Kolesnikov, 2023)

Sometimes, the strict protocol of data security, frequent passwords, and multi-factor authentication lead to inconvenience and decreased productivity rate of the user (Yang, 2020). To reduce these dangers, proper user education and awareness are essential.

3) Potential for Mass Surveillance: Concerns about mass surveillance are frequently raised due to the extensive use of technology for data security and privacy. Large volumes of personal information may be gathered and analysed by governments, businesses, or other groups, creating concerns about privacy protection. It's a constant struggle to balance the need for increased security and people's right to privacy, which calls for careful thought and legislative protections.

Conclusion

Technology undoubtedly offers several advantages in maintaining data security and privacy. But, businesses must acknowledge the risks involved. Balancing security and privacy requires ongoing research, collaboration, and a vigilant approach towards emerging technologies. By doing so, they can continue leveraging technology's benefits while safeguarding their digital lives.

References

Hahn, D., Munir, A. and Behzadan, V., 2019. Security and privacy issues in intelligent transportation systems: Classification and challenges. IEEE Intelligent Transportation Systems Magazine, 13(1), pp.181-196.

Kolesnikov, N., 2023. 50+ Cybersecurity Statistics for 2023 You Need to Know – Where, Who & What is Targeted. [online] Available at: < https://www.techopedia.com/cybersecurity-statistics#:~:text=In%202020%2C%20there%20was%20a,breaches%20in%20critical%20infrastructure%20industries.>

Sun, P., 2020. Security and privacy protection in cloud computing: Discussions and challenges. Journal of Network and Computer Applications, 160, p.102642.

Yang, P., Xiong, N. and Ren, J., 2020. Data security and privacy protection for cloud storage: A survey. IEEE Access, 8, pp.131723-131740.