The loss of confidential data can be devastating if not prevented

In one of the most recent events of data loss, an employee from the Bank of Ireland lost a USB stick that contained personal information of around 900 customers, including details of their accounts, addresses and phone numbers. In addition to losing the memory stick, it has been revealed that the information on the stick was not encrypted. This could be devastating to account holders.

The bank claims that it has already informed those affected by the breach of data and will constantly monitor those accounts contained on the memory stick for any unusual activity. Gary Davis, the Data Protection Commissioner, admitted that this kind of loss is a cause for concern but also gave credit to the bank for acting in a responsible way by informing customers.

Data loss can be prevented if the right measures are taken. It should be made known to people that data loss prevention technology is widely available along with encryption techniques to avoid these kinds of situations. What should be remembered is that online backup systems are of immense help in securing confidential data. They help avoid the use of portable storage devices like USB memory sticks, DVDs, CDs etc. Most of the incidents of data loss are due to carelessness or neglect. Online backup and online data storage help prevent all such incidents.

Even if data is lost or damaged, immediate steps can be taken to retrieve it preventing further damage.