In an increasingly interconnected world and with the growing adoption of hybrid work, data security has become a matter of utmost importance for organizations. In this context, a recent report from Kingston Technology Company, Inc., a global leader in memory products and technology solutions, highlights a 25% increase in the loss of electronic devices in the London transport system during the 2022/23 period. This finding not only poses a serious challenge but also underscores the urgent need to reflect on the protection of digital assets in an ever-evolving environment.
The Risk in Numbers
Data obtained through a Freedom of Information request to Transport for London (TFL) reveals a worrying trend: device loss has become more frequent on the most used means of transport in the British capital. Buses, taxis, London Overground, London Underground, TFL Rail, and Docklands Light Railway have all been affected by this concerning situation. Most alarming is the 39% increase in losses on the London Underground and a 40% increase in taxi journeys compared to the previous year.
This phenomenon is not exclusive to London; it can be extrapolated to major cities and should alert not only organizations but also individuals about how to safeguard their most valuable information in a constantly moving world.
Data at Risk
Mobility has become the norm, and work devices store a considerable amount of sensitive company data, ranging from passwords and documents to financial information and customer data. Exposing this information to third parties can have serious consequences, from legal penalties due to regulations like GDPR and CCPA, to the loss of trade secrets, employee data, and damage to the organization’s reputation.
In the office environment, IT security strategies are usually well defined. However, outside this context, devices no longer have the same levels of protection. This is a problem that affects everyone, as anyone could accidentally leave a device in a taxi or on a train. Organizations must prepare for this possibility and ensure the security of both their employees and company data.
The Solution: Hardware-Based Encryption
So, how do you protect data on the move? The answer lies in hardware-based encryption. By using storage devices that offer hardware-based encryption, you can be sure that in the event of loss or theft, the data contained on the device will be safe from unauthorized hands.
The Kingston IronKey line of encrypted USB flash drives and external SSD storage solutions is a fundamental tool for ensuring the security of mobile data. These solutions feature advanced 256-bit AES encryption and FIPS-certified security, making it virtually impossible for third parties to access the data in case of loss or theft.
It’s important to note that software-based encryption does not offer the same protection. Unencrypted USB drives purchased in stores, along with encryption software, can be vulnerable to brute force attacks and other threats, putting company data at risk.
“Our report on device loss in the London transport system is a wake-up call for all organizations to review and improve their security strategies,” emphasized Carlos Alvergue, country manager of Kingston in El Salvador. “Cybersecurity in the era of mobility is a challenge we cannot underestimate. Hardware-based encryption, like that offered by Kingston IronKey, represents a reliable solution to protect companies’ digital assets in a constantly moving world. Investing in data security is an investment in the organization’s future.”
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About Kingston Technology Company, Inc.
From big data to laptops and PCs, including IoT-based devices like smart technology and wearables, Kingston helps manufacturers integrate solutions used for living, working, and playing. The world’s largest PC manufacturers and cloud storage companies rely on Kingston to meet their manufacturing needs, and our passion fuels the technology the world uses every day. We go beyond our products to have a broader vision, meet our customers’ needs, and deliver solutions that make a difference. For more information on how Kingston is with you, visit Kingston.com.
Kingston and the Kingston logo are registered trademarks of Kingston Technology Corporation. IronKey is a registered trademark of Kingston Digital, Inc. Kingston FURY and the Kingston FURY logo are registered trademarks of Kingston Technology Corporation. All rights reserved. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
