Encryption 'not the end solution to data compliance'

Businesses which store sensitive information about their customers could find themselves falling foul of regulations if they do not comply with data storage requirements, it has been stated.

While encryption is an important part of correctly handling data, there is still room for human error, claimed senior editor of Customer Relationship Magazine Marshall Lager.

Sensitive information - which could include credit card details - could be used by third parties and leave customers open to fraud.

"Make what you will of encryption; the most important security practices still rest with individuals not exposing their logins and passwords via social engineering," he stated.

Using mobile devices to store sensitive information may also be a risk to business. A previous survey by Credant found that nearly a quarter of respondents admit to storing customers' details on their mobile telephones.

And customers also use such handsets to input personal data. A quarter of those questioned by mobile credit card security firm Billing Revolution believe that shopping via their handset is completely safe.

Written by Tim Dunton