Microsoft highlights email security following Panama Papers fiasco

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Published onMay 24, 2016

published onMay 24, 2016

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Last month one of the largest data leaks in history occurred when2.6 TBs of emails and datafrom law firm Mossack Fonseca made the headlines. Dubbed the Panama Papers, the leak revealed the law firm’s work setting up shell corporations for hundreds of world leaders, celebrities, and the global elite to hide funds from the tax-man. Since the leak, there has been political fallout, backlash, and even the prime minister of Icelandtendering his resignation. But politics aside, the leak also reveals a glaring fact that successful firms, which are supposed to place high values on customer data and privacy, still make fundamental errors with IT security.

In light of the headlines, Microsoft took an opportunity today to remind IT pros ofsome lessons from the Panama Papersleaks. The Office Team stresses “Whether you believe the Panama Papers leak was a good or bad thing, a more important question remains: What can IT security professionals learn from this?” They then go on to make three important recommendations for companies to be more careful with their data, specifically with emails, which was the source of the Panama Papers leak.

Their three tips are:

y, monitor and protect data, thereby preventing data loss.

Data leaks and whistleblowers can lead to substantial social policy reform. So on the one hand, you might now want to read about how to prevent them. But if a law firm specializing in international secrecy and privileged client information can’t even get email encryption right, just think about how many reputable and noble businesses of every size are also not paying attention to these basic security concerns. The Panama Papers certainly won’t be the last substantial leak, and personal information will continue to be exposed by either companies’ or individuals’ neglect of best practices. Hopefully, taking the time to learn lessons from each data breach will encourage more attention on the matter and creative solutions in the future.

Radu Tyrsina

Radu Tyrsina has been a Windows fan ever since he got his first PC, a Pentium III (a monster at that time).

For most of the kids of his age, the Internet was an amazing way to play and communicate with others, but he was deeply impressed by the flow of information and how easily you can find anything on the web.

Prior to founding Windows Report, this particular curiosity about digital content enabled him to grow a number of sites that helped hundreds of millions reach faster the answer they’re looking for.

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Microsoft highlights email security following Panama Papers fiasco