In today’s age of far-reaching technology systems, information technology (IT) compliance has become an essential aspect for businesses of all sizes. The data that companies collect and generate throughout their journeys ties directly into the wellbeing of customers and employees.
Therefore, adhering to various regulatory standards and guidelines that ensure the security, integrity, and confidentiality of sensitive data should be high on the list of organizations’ priorities.
This simple article will delve into the importance of IT compliance and how it can benefit your business in the long run.
What is IT compliance in simple terms?
IT compliance refers to the set of rules and regulations posed by third-party entities that companies must adhere to when it comes to their IT environment and overall business operations. The purpose of IT compliance is to ensure that organizations are following best practices and industry standards to protect sensitive information from security threats, such as data breaches.
What are some examples of IT compliance?
There are various compliance regulations that exist within the business landscape today. Some of them include the following:
- General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR): Regulations enforced by the European Union (EU) to protect the personal information of its citizens. If a company within the United States wants to do business with EU citizens and collect their data, it must comply with GDPR.
- Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA): Instills regulations to protect the privacy of protected health information (PHI) for companies within the healthcare industry and their business associates.
- Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS): Applies compliance standards to organizations that use digital transactions within their operations. Any financial data (for example, credit card numbers) that a business collects, manages, stores, and transmits is subject to PCI DSS.
Different regulations apply to different companies depending on their industry and location. When securing business IT solutions, it is incredibly important that organizations align their security strategies and measures with the compliance regulations that are relevant to them.
Is there a difference between IT compliance and IT security?
Compliance and security are two distinct concepts in the world of technology systems. Compliance is about ensuring that the organization is following relevant security laws and regulations, making sure that companies are following the rules.
On the other hand, IT security refers to safeguarding the company’s data and systems from unauthorized access, theft, or damage. It covers the specific security solutions businesses use to protect their IT environment and their configurations. Compared to compliance (which is standardized across the board), IT security is more customizable.
Despite their differences, security and compliance can work together to create a secure and compliant IT environment.
Why is IT compliance important for organizations?
Compliance is important for businesses for several reasons. First and foremost, it helps companies protect their data and business IT solutions from cyber-attacks and other security threats. Regulations provide organizations with a financial incentive to protect customer data and prevent costly data breaches that can cause downtime.
Secondly, compliance provides companies with guidance in conforming to legal standards. Many industries have strict regulations that businesses must follow to ensure that they are providing secure and reliable services to their customers. If a company is not able to comply with regulations, it can face fines and legal consequences, on top of a damaged reputation.
Thirdly, compliance helps organizations find and retain customers and stakeholders. When they actively invest in their compliance and security measures, companies demonstrate that they take security and data protection seriously. And when people see this, it can help businesses build trust and credibility with their prospective and established customers, which can lead to increased loyalty and retention.
How can businesses become compliant?
Your technology systems provide you with the resources to keep your business operating 24/7/365. When you do business with a company outside work, you would expect your personal data to be protected. Consequently, it is important to remember that your customers expect the same standard from you.
There are numerous practices to ensure that your IT environment is compliant. They include the following:
- Develop and implement a security plan: A comprehensive security strategy can add weight to a company's compliance initiatives. Your plan should include policies and procedures that address security measures (for example, data encryption) and their ties to relevant regulations.
- Identify and assess security risks: By evaluating the risk of potential threats and vulnerabilities, you can develop countermeasures in accordance with legal regulations.
- Train your employees: Make sure all your employees understand the protocols that ensure compliance and the consequences of not following them.
- Keep your software up to date: Make sure to always install the latest patches and updates and keep an eye out for any new security threats.
- Document everything: Document all security policies, procedures, and other aspects of your compliance program. This will help ensure that all measures are being followed and that any changes are kept on file.
- Acquire expert assistance: Effective IT compliance requires a thorough understanding of technology systems, legal regulations, and security requirements. By procuring the help of an experienced IT compliance specialist, you can ensure that your business IT solutions (and team members) follow the necessary laws.
Keep your technology systems compliant with IT specialists
Regulations are vital to maintaining high standards of data security, ethics, and business best practices to keep organizations functional and profitable. The cybersecurity professionals at Davenport Group can assess your organization’s risks, business IT solutions, and legal obligations to develop a comprehensive strategy that can keep your business compliant with any regulations.
With the Davenport team managing your compliance needs, you and your co-workers will be able to deliver your products and services within a secure IT environment. Contact them today and get started.
