As Data Privacy Day approaches on 28 January, Thales has called on businesses across Asia Pacific to strengthen their data protection measures. This includes improving transparency, security, and compliance to safeguard sensitive information while fostering customer trust.
In a landscape shaped by disruptive technologies and evolving cyber threats, organisations are handling more data than ever before. The adoption of tools like generative AI has increased data collection, storage, and analysis, raising the potential damage caused by breaches. Regulatory oversight and financial penalties for lapses have also become stricter, underscoring the urgency of proactive data management strategies.
“Generative AI is a threat but also an unprecedented opportunity to build loyalty with customers,” said Andy Zollo, Senior Vice President, Application and Data Security for Thales in Asia Pacific & Japan. “Maintaining proper data control is arguably the most important focus of all strategic security initiatives and must take priority in organisations looking to build trust-led competitive advantage.”
Building a culture of privacy
Thales recommends that businesses focus on creating a culture of privacy within their organisations. Educating employees about their responsibilities in protecting personal information is a critical first step. Employees should understand how data security applies to their everyday tasks, ensuring consistent practices throughout the organisation.
Another key measure is conducting privacy impact assessments. These evaluations help organisations identify where and how data is stored, backed up, and disposed of, along with assessing existing data security measures. This process can reveal vulnerabilities in current systems that could lead to breaches if left unaddressed.
Moving towards proactive cyber defence
Rather than relying on reactive responses to cyber threats, Thales advocates for a proactive approach to security. According to the 2024 Data Threat Report by Thales, emerging technologies such as generative AI, cloud computing, IoT/5G, and quantum computing present opportunities to enhance proactive defences. By adopting advanced security measures, businesses can safely integrate these innovations while reducing vulnerabilities.
Keeping up to date with security technologies is another essential step. As phishing attacks and identity-based threats become increasingly common, organisations should strengthen their identity and access management systems. Workforce and customer identity solutions can complement existing security frameworks, providing added layers of protection against evolving cyber risks.
Empowering stakeholders and building trust
Thales also emphasises the importance of engaging stakeholders to embed robust security practices throughout an organisation. This includes empowering developers to adopt secure customer onboarding and authentication processes, as well as promoting security awareness through champion programs.
These initiatives create a culture of security that extends beyond the organisation, fostering trust with customers and partners. “Ultimately, these steps will enable businesses to deepen customer trust, strengthen organisational resilience through better threat management, and improve ROI from generative AI and cloud investments through better data control,” Zollo added.
As the threat environment continues to evolve, Thales’ recommendations highlight the growing need for businesses to prioritise data privacy, not just as a compliance measure but as a strategic advantage.
