Unit 04: LO 1 - 1.1 - Security of Organisational Data

Let's think of an organization like a big treasure chest. It contains different kinds of "gems" or data, and each type of gem has its own level of importance and need for security. Here are some examples:

Company Data

• Profit Margins: This is like the crown jewel of the treasure chest. If competitors know your profit margins, they can undercut you.

• Trade Secrets: These are the magic formulas or special methods that make your company unique. You wouldn't want anyone else to know the secret sauce!

• Cost of Raw Materials: Knowing how much you pay for materials can give others insights into your operations and potential profit margins.

Personal Data

• Identifiable Colleague or Customer Data: This is like having someone's personal diary in your treasure chest. If it gets out, people's privacy can be compromised.

• Bank Details: Imagine these as the golden keys to someone's vault. In the wrong hands, these can lead to financial theft.

• Colleague Salaries: This is sensitive data that, if leaked, could cause unrest or dissatisfaction among staff.

• Medical Information: This is extremely personal, akin to knowing someone's vulnerabilities. Unauthorized access to this could be both an ethical and legal violation.

• Colleague Appraisal/Disciplinary Information: This is like having a report card that not only grades performance but can also affect someone's career. It needs to be handled with care.

Securing each type of these "gems" or data is crucial to the overall well-being of the "treasure chest" (the organization). Leaks or thefts can not only result in financial loss but also damage the organization's reputation and integrity. Just like you wouldn't leave a treasure chest unlocked and unguarded, you shouldn't leave organizational data unprotected.