Cybersecurity Starts with Awareness
This Cyber Awareness Month, we’re spotlighting three critical areas where poor habits, outdated practices, or overlooked systems could leave your organisation vulnerable. From lingering digital traces to insecure software connections, these hidden gaps can quietly expose sensitive data if not addressed.
Data Destruction Done Wrong
Simply deleting files or formatting drives doesn’t mean your data is truly gone. Improper disposal of hard drives, USBs or old devices can leave recoverable information behind. That’s a potential goldmine for cybercriminals.
Why It Matters:
Disposing of devices without securely wiping or destroying the data can result in customer information, internal documentation or login credentials falling into the wrong hands.
How to Avoid the Risk:
Include data disposal in your offboarding and equipment lifecycle process.
Partner with an IT provider who offers secure disposal services.
Insecure APIs in Your Everyday Tools
Modern software tools often connect through APIs (Application Programming Interfaces). Think CRMs talking to email platforms or project tools integrating with document storage. But not all APIs are built with security in mind.
Why It Matters:
Vulnerable APIs can be exploited to bypass authentication, access sensitive data or manipulate system behaviour. Many businesses don’t realise how many tools rely on them.
Why It’s a Risk:
Audit what apps and systems are connected via APIs.
Work with vendors who follow secure development practices.
Use API gateways, access controls and encryption where possible.
Forgotten Digital Footprints from Past Employees
When employees leave, they don’t always take their digital access with them. That’s a major risk. From old credentials still stored in browsers to lingering third-party app logins, these overlooked entry points can be exploited later.
Why It Matters:
A past user’s login could still access company files, cloud platforms or collaboration tools. This is especially risky if password policies aren’t enforced.
How to Stay Secure:
Revoke access as part of your offboarding checklist.
Monitor for orphaned accounts in cloud tools and local systems.
Use identity management solutions to track access and credentials.
Upcoming Webinar: Security & Data Compliance
Part 3: Guide to Autodesk’s New Regional Data Hubs
📅 13th November 2025 | 12:00 – 13:00
Join Symetri’s Andy Compton for a deep dive into the security and compliance implications of Autodesk’s new data hubs. Learn how to protect project data while staying aligned with industry and regional regulations.
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