5 Reasons Why Database Security is Important
New and emerging database technologies like blockchain, artificial intelligence, machine learning and new database architectures like NoSQL are opening up new opportunities to rethink the way databases are used and managed. Newer database technologies also bring with them a range of new security challenges that organizations need to be aware of. In fact, in this increasingly connected world where cybercrime is on the rise, database security is more important than ever before — especially as organizations work to protect sensitive customer data, personal information and other confidential details. In response to these trends and the risk they represent, database security has become one of the most pressing concerns for businesses today.
Why Is Database Security Important?
Database security is critical for several reasons including:
● For example, if your systems are breached and credit card information is stolen, you could be liable for the costs of reimbursing customers.
● Reputation damage: Data breaches can also damage your brand and reputation. In fact, according to a study, almost 80% of consumers would take their business elsewhere if a company suffered a data breach that put their information at risk.
● Regulatory compliance: Finally, with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) coming into force in May, data security is more important than ever before. Under the GDPR, organizations must ensure that their systems are secure and confidential, which means having strong database security is essential.
Threats in Database Security
Database attacks come in many forms, from malware-infected computer systems to targeted cyberattacks on your database systems themselves. The most common types of database attack include:
● SQL injection: This is when an attacker inserts malicious code into a website’s login page to obtain information.
● Denial of service (DoS): This is an attempt to overload a database or website with superfluous requests, causing it to slow down or even shut down.
● Database exploitation: This refers to the unauthorized use of sensitive data.
● Code modification: This occurs when attackers change the code of a database.
● Malicious insiders: This are people who have been given access to a database, but misuse their privileges.
● Hidden flaws in code: These can be exploited by attackers to steal sensitive data or cause damage to your system.
5 Ways to Protect Your Database
If you want to protect your company’s data and keep your customers and employees’ information secure, here are some important steps you can take:
● Regular database security audits: This is one of the most effective ways to stay on top of your database security. You can use automated tools to conduct an audit and detect vulnerabilities, including hidden malicious code.
● Use strong, unique passwords: Make sure you use strong passwords with a combination of upper and lowercase letters, numbers and special characters. Avoid using the same password across multiple accounts and change your passwords regularly.
● Regularly update software: Be sure to update your software, including your database software.
● Train your employees: Make sure your staff is aware of the dangers of malicious attacks, and how they can help protect your systems.
Blockchain Technology and Database Security
As you’ve read, database security is a major concern for businesses today. That’s why blockchain technology, which powers decentralized databases, is set to profoundly change the way we think about database security. But what is blockchain, and how does it change the game for securing databases? Blockchain is an innovative distributed ledger technology that enables secure, decentralized transactions using cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. Because of the way it works, blockchain technology is extremely well suited to protecting databases.This is because blockchain consists of distributed networks that use a consensus mechanism to verify and approve each transaction. In other words, they don’t rely on a single third party or central authority.
Having strong database security is extremely important, not just for large corporations, but for every business. With cyberattacks becoming more common and sophisticated, it’s essential for organizations to take steps to protect their systems. There are many ways that you can do this, from using strong passwords to updating your software, to protecting your systems with blockchain technology.