Data breaches involving sensitive personal information are a growing concern in today’s digitized world. From credit card numbers to social security numbers, hackers are constantly targeting valuable data to exploit for their own gain. While data breaches can occur in various forms, one alarming trend is the increasing number of breaches involving paperbased personally identifiable information (PII).
Paper Based PII is Involved in More Data Breaches
Traditionally, when we think of data breaches, we often envision sophisticated hackers breaking into secure online databases. However, recent studies have shown that paperbased PII is actually involved in more data breaches than we may realize. In fact, according to a report by the Ponemon Institute, 19% of data breaches in 2020 involved paper records.
This may come as a surprise to many, as we tend to view digital information as more vulnerable to cyber attacks. However, the reality is that physical documents containing sensitive PII can be just as risky. Whether it’s an employee leaving a printout on a desk or a file cabinet being left unlocked, there are numerous ways in which paperbased PII can fall into the wrong hands.
One of the main reasons paperbased PII is at a higher risk of breaches is the lack of encryption and security measures typically found in digital systems. While online databases often have firewalls, encryption, and access controls in place, physical documents are often left unguarded. This makes them an easy target for unauthorized individuals looking to steal valuable personal information.
Furthermore, the use of paper documents is still prevalent in many industries, such as healthcare and finance, where sensitive PII is routinely handled. Despite efforts to digitize records, there are still instances where paper documents are necessary, leading to a continued risk of data breaches.
In addition, the COVID19 pandemic has exacerbated the issue of paperbased PII breaches. With more employees working from home, the handling of physical documents has become more challenging. Documents that were once securely stored in an office may now be scattered across various home offices, increasing the likelihood of sensitive information being misplaced or stolen.
Overall, the prevalence of paperbased PII in data breaches highlights the need for organizations to prioritize the security of all forms of personal information, whether digital or physical. Implementing strict policies for handling and disposing of paper documents, as well as investing in secure storage solutions, can help reduce the risk of breaches and protect individuals’ sensitive information.
Billake Bartow is a passionate tech writer at HouseZoneSpot, known for his deep understanding of smart home innovations and digital living. His articles focus on practical technology that enhances everyday comfort, convenience, and energy efficiency in modern homes.
