5 Reasons why modern workers must be trained in data protection

In every modern workplace, each employee must play a vital role to keep the whole office safe and secure.

The way workers access, share and store their data has changed drastically over recent years. With the introduction of cloud-based sharing and office cyberattacks on the rise, businesses must now more than ever train their workers to be vigilant. From backing up files, creating stronger passwords and raising employee awareness to spotting potential problems and threats, it is essential that modern workers become aware of their responsibilities and understand the consequences if they fail to act on them.

A 2017 Dell End-User Security Survey* found that 72% of workers were willing to share confidential company information with no regard for data security protocols.

Employers themselves must equip their staff with the correct training to ensure that workplace practices comply with The Data Protection Act 1998. Here, we take a look at 5 of the many reasons why modern workers must be trained in data protection:

To protect brand value and reputation

It is essential that customers feel safe and secure, and trust companies to keep their details confidential. When workers fail to take the basic steps to identify sensitive data and protect it from loss or misuse, they risk damaging the company’s reputation and losing business. Training allows workers to understand the key principles of data protection and how to implement these effectively in their day to day activities, ensuring excellent customer service.

To comply with regulations and avoid fines

Workplaces in public and private sectors must comply with data protection laws, namely the Data Protection Act 1998. Modern workers must be fully aware of these and know exactly what they involve in order to meet the standards. Training teaches workers the 8 principles of Data Protection Act 1998, how data protection matters are enforced and what the consequences are when mistakes or data breaches occur.

To keep up with modern workplace trends

While advancing technology and upgrading office systems (such as cloud file-sharing at work) will improve productivity and worker efficiency, it is important to remember that these new methods of data storing still need to be protected in the same way that traditional methods do. Giving workers the proper training will help them act accordingly no matter where data is stored and processed, while ensuring that the company can still advance with modern methods.

To avoid human error

Accidental disclosure or mishandling of information by employees is one of the most common breaches of data protection. Training gives workers a proper understanding of what is and isn’t confidential information, what is classed as sensitive data, and what should never be discussed or disclosed to outside parties.

To improve efficiency and business management

Once workers have been trained to understand what data protection means to them in their role and how to enact the 8 principles on a day to day basis, workplaces can come to expect a better level of organisation and efficiency. Because the Data Protection Act demands better management and storage of information, this has a knock-on effect and often results in better business practices. Whether this is an introduction of a better filing system, properly shredding materials or monitoring cloud storage, training gives workers the knowledge and skills needed to proactively improve techniques in the workplace.