Working as a wedding planner is a very exciting and fast-paced job, particularly as an increasing number of couples are turning to hiring a professional to take on all the hard work of planning and putting together the happiest day of their lives. But, it’s not just important to have good attention to detail, excellent organizational skills and a creative approach towards meeting all your clients’ expectations and more. As a wedding planner, your clients will also be trusting you with some of their most sensitive data, including names, addresses and credit card information – all of which can be used by hackers and cybercriminals to steal money, identities and more. We’ve put together some top tips for wedding planners to help them abide by data protection laws and maintain their shining reputation.
Tip #1. Use Strong Anti-Virus and Security Software:
Chances are, you don’t store client data in a filing cabinet anymore – thanks to massive improvements in digital storage and the convenience of being able to store huge amounts of data on one device, you’ve probably using a computer, hard drive or disk to keep all your clients’ information safe. However, a lack of security software on your computer could make this information very vulnerable. Select a reputable anti-virus and anti-malware application and ensure that it’s updated regularly to offer the best protection.
Tip #2. Encrypt Data Stored in the Cloud:
Today, cloud storage services such as iCloud, Google Drive, OneDrive and DropBox have become extremely popular for storing data, particularly since they offer an extra layer of protection. Unlike when storing your clients’ data on a physical device such as a hard drive, using the cloud allows you to access it with a password from almost any device with an internet connection, meaning that data is still secure even if a computer breaks down or is damaged beyond repair. However, it’s important to bear in mind that cloud storage systems can be extremely vulnerable to hackers if not protected adequately. Encrypt any sensitive data before moving to the cloud, and update login procedures with a strong unique password and two-step verification wherever possible.
Tip #3. Be Vigilant:
Whether you work alone as a wedding planner or hire a team of employees, vigilance in every task is essential to keep your clients’ data secure. For example, only give a select number of employees access to sensitive client data if needed, and ensure that any devices you store data on are protected with a strong password. Be wary of any emails asking you to provide your data or that of a client – particularly if they look like they have been sent by a bank or other financial institution.
Tip #4. Act Fast:
Lastly, bear in mind that small businesses are becoming bigger targets for hackers and cybercriminals, so it’s vital to act fast if you think that an attack is underway or has taken place. If you believe that data has been compromised, you should get in touch with professionals such as Secure Data Recovery who can recover any lost information and help you tighten your security. You should also inform all clients so that they can take steps to protect themselves.
So, did these tips help? We’d love to hear from you in the comments.
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