08 Oct Controlled Access to Confidential Data
Access restrictions to data are essential to ensure that confidential information is kept private and secure. They are used to restrict access to data to individuals who have earned that right through rigorous vetting.
This includes the vetting of projects, training for researchers and the use of virtual or physical secure lab environments. In some instances, an embargo may be necessary to safeguard research findings until they are ready to be published.
There are a myriad of models of access control, including the Discretionary Access Control (DAC) where the owner or administrator decides who has access to specific systems, resources, or data. This model provides flexibility, but it can create security risks since individuals can inadvertently give access to people they should not be granted access. Mandatory Access Control (MAC), is nondiscretionary and common in military or government environments, where access is regulated by classification of information and levels of clearance.
Access control is also critical in meeting the requirements of industry compliance for information security and protection. By using the best practices for access control and adhering with pre-defined policies, organizations can prove conformity in audits or inspections. They can also avoid penalties and fines and maintain trust among customers or clients. This is particularly important in situations where regulations such as GDPR, HIPAA and PCI DSS apply. By regularly reviewing and updating access rights for current and former employees, organizations can ensure they aren’t leaving sensitive information exposed to unauthorized users. This requires careful monitoring of existing permissions, and ensuring that access is automatically deprovisioned when people quit or change roles within the company.
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