Having secure information and databases becomes increasingly important the more and more we rely on technology for business operations — especially in the business and healthcare fields, which store massive amounts of information using databases. A database usually holds sensitive information such as patient records, financial records, and so on, and because sensitive information is stored, it is crucial that your business has a secure database that you can rely on. Here are four key ways to secure your database:
1. Data Encryption
Database encryption takes the outright information or text stored in a database and converts it into an indecipherable text using algorithms. The text is then only decipherable to encryption programs. In this way, data encryption works to protect the information stored in your database from outside hackers or accidental leakage.
2. Secure Passwords
Using secure passwords is crucial to maintaining a high level of database security. Never use simple, easy-to-guess passwords, as hackers have easy access to tools and software that can guess passwords. In order to avoid your company’s passwords from being easily guessed, you should always use complex passwords that could not be guessed easily and that use a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols.
3. Firewalls
A database firewall works to more effectively secure a database by identifying and protecting against potential database attacks that may seek access to protected or sensitive information. A firewall can also produce specific regulations reports for SOX, PCI, and more. You can learn more on our blog, “Understanding the Firewall: Your First Line of Defense.”
4. Audits
Running regular audits can help detect any unwanted or unusual database activity. This includes failed login attempts from an unknown source or individual. Audits detect suspicious activity in order to prevent future database security breaches and issues such as hacking.
Keep Your Sensitive Data Safe and Secure
Using database encryption, complex passwords, firewalls, and audits can easily help any business beef up their database security. For maximum security, use all four tips in conjunction with one another for a secure database and a secure future for your business.
