The Growing Concern of Sensitive Data in Non-Production Environments: A Deep Dive
Businesses are facing a rising challenge when it comes to safeguarding sensitive data in non-production environments. A recent report by Delphix highlights the escalating volume of sensitive data being stored in lower environments, such as development, testing, analytics, and AI/ML. This trend is concerning executives, with 91% expressing worries about the increased exposure footprint and potential risks of breaches and non-compliance penalties.
The surge in consumer data is attributed to the growth of online consumers and digital transformation efforts. The IDC forecasts a substantial increase in the global datasphere by 2025, reaching 163 zettabytes. Consequently, the amount of sensitive data, including personal identifiable information and financial details, being stored is on the rise.
One of the key findings of the report is the prevalence of data breaches in non-production environments, with over half of businesses already experiencing such incidents. The complexity of AI systems and their integration with external platforms pose significant challenges in controlling data flow, with AI and ML cited as the primary drivers of sensitive data growth in non-production settings.
The Financial Implications of Data Breaches
Aside from regulatory concerns, businesses are also worried about the financial repercussions of insecure data. Compliance fines, downtime incidents, and ransomware damage can result in significant financial losses. IBM reports that the average cost of a data breach in 2024 has increased by 10%, highlighting the need for robust security measures.
Securing data in non-production environments can be resource-intensive, but essential. Implementing strategies like static data masking, data loss prevention, data encryption, and strict access control can help mitigate risks and protect sensitive information effectively.
In conclusion, the evolving landscape of data security demands a proactive approach from businesses to safeguard sensitive data in non-production environments. By adopting robust security measures and staying abreast of regulatory developments, organizations can navigate the challenges posed by the growing volume of sensitive data effectively.