6 Things You Should Do to Handle Data Privacy Updates

As more information moved online, keeping it safe became essential. New cybersecurity rules were put in place, like how to store private data and making sure organizations have strong privacy policies. Without these protections, important assets could be in danger.

The U.S. healthcare industry must follow complex rules, including HIPAA for health data and PCI-DSS for payment card information. GDPR is a broader law that any business selling to EU citizens must follow to protect their personal data from misuse.

Protecting data privacy can be tough for any organization. In addition to industry and international rules, local laws also affect how sensitive information is managed. These rules change often, and not keeping up can hurt your business.

By 2024, most people will have their data protected by new privacy regulations.

As technology advances, there is a growing need for updated data privacy standards. By 2023, Colorado, Utah, Connecticut, and Virginia will lead the way by introducing new rules to keep people’s information safe and support digital accountability.

Businesses need to keep their data privacy rules up to date or risk serious problems. Not following the right standards can lead to large fines, and ignoring security measures can cause even bigger issues.

HIPAA uses a special enforcement system, with fines starting at $100 and going up to $50,000 per breached record in serious cases. Companies must stay alert to follow the rules or risk expensive penalties.

Does all of this seem overwhelming?

Need help understanding the changing world on how to handle data privacy? We can help. Take a look at our tips to stay informed and up to date.

Managing data privacy compliance can be complicated.

1. It’s important to keep up with regulations and know which ones apply to you

Does your organization know how to stay compliant?

1. Industry

2. Where you sell (e.g., if you sell to the EU)

3. Statewide

4. City or county

5. Federal (e.g., for government contractors)

Be aware of the ever-changing data privacy regulations out there! Knowing which ones you are subject to can help prevent any unexpected issues from arising. Stay informed and up-to-date on all applicable laws so that no surprises come your way.

2. Are you keeping up with changing data privacy regulations?

Don’t let changes to data privacy rules surprise you. Get updates from your compliance authority’s official website. Make sure you have accurate, current information to make the best decisions for your company.

If you work in healthcare, keep your business current with all regulations by signing up for HIPAA updates at HIPAA.gov. This will help you stay informed about changes and keep your business compliant.

To make sure important updates are not missed, send them to both your security officer and another responsible person. This way, someone will always be watching for changes.

3. Set aside time each year to review your data security standards.

Every company wants to be more advanced and efficient. This might mean adding new hardware or making big changes to how things work. Technology keeps moving forward as businesses try to improve.

When new employees join your IT team, using the wrong mobile device or cloud tool can be risky. One mistake could lead to non-compliance, so it’s important to carefully monitor all new technology for security.

Keeping up with data security and privacy rules is key to keeping your business strong. Review them regularly, at least once a year, to make sure you meet all the necessary regulations.

4. Make sure your security protocols are current by auditing them regularly.

Each year, review your policies and procedures. These written guidelines explain how everyone should act regarding data security. They help keep everyone informed about what needs protection and support employees who need help with breaches.

Update your security policies every year and whenever data privacy rules change. Review any new requirements so you can stay ahead.

5. Keep your safeguards current.

Data privacy rules keep changing, so it’s important to be ready.

Focus on three areas of your IT security:

1. Technical safeguards: systems, devices, software, and similar tools.

2. Administrative safeguards: policies, manuals, training, and related materials.

3. Physical safeguards include doors, keypads, building security, and similar measures.

6. Employees must stay current on compliance and data privacy policies.

Because data privacy laws can change, employees should stay updated. When there is news about a policy change, add it to your training plan to keep everyone informed.

Regular cybersecurity training helps staff protect against attacks and understand why data protection matters. Include any updates they need to know so they are ready.

Keeping accurate records of your training sessions is important for your organization’s security. Document the date, participants, and topics covered in each session. This way, you’ll have proof if a breach ever happens.

Do you need to check if your systems meet the standards?

Dealing with data privacy can be easier. Our experienced team is here to help. Contact us for a free consultation and guidance.