Why Data is an Important Asset and How to Protect it

What makes data so valuable? Some claim that data is the most important asset in the world right now, bringing oil and similar resources to the battle. While customers complain about the lack of privacy due to data collecting, companies successfully utilize data for building effective business strategies as well as for improving their security systems.

As more processes move to the digital sphere, data becomes the number one asset that helps in many different ways. Naturally, because of its great value, fraudsters and hackers want to steal data and use it for criminal activities. Even though cybercrime is on the rise, some special tools and practices help protect data. Stick to reading the whole article to uncover the truth about data and the importance of security.

The Benefits of Data

First of all, data is used as a measure. Organizations collect and analyze data to improve their services and take action effectively. No wonder data is described as knowledge since it provides us with actual evidence as opposed to inaccurate assumptions. Here are a few examples of why data is beneficial:

• Data is everywhere. If needed, you can access data as a consumer from any place in the world. It’s also easy to copy data online and use it for research.
• It’s not subject to tax. If you transfer or receive data, you don’t need to cover any additional costs. For instance, organizations selling databases.
• Data is reusable. Information is valuable because it can be used all over again in a wide variety of cases. For example,  for analytics, consumer behavior research, business development, etc. 
• It’s multi-functional. The best part about data is that it’s extensive. Collecting data helps organizations improve their sales and make better decisions regarding their internal and external processes.

Data Equals Confident Decisions

Skilled personnel knows the true value of data. Comprehensive information can be turned into high-quality research that directly impacts the business’ ability to make strategic decisions. Without such data, it’s hard for businesses to plan their strategy and budget as well as validate it with confidence. Data helps to understand the business better, at the same time, impacting important decisions.

Despite the pros of data, let’s not forget that it needs to be taken care of correctly. If the information isn’t accurate, it loses its value. Many key decision-makers state that the lack of trust in data impacts further investment in data-based initiatives. Regular data monitoring and collecting objective information help businesses make accurate decisions. Data also allows companies to measure their strategies and the effectiveness of various solutions or services.

Why Data Holds Value

The internet-focused world sees major potential for data because it’s available for sale and purchase. Most influential businesses make their money by reviewing and collecting personal data from their customers. A good example of this would be Facebook or Google. Let’s not forget Tesla. The company alone generates 25 gigabytes of data per hour through its car network.

If the only type of data was related to transactions a few decades ago, now it’s utilized for analyzing consumer behavior. Then, the information was used to find out what the profit margin was or how the business’ sales affected inventory. Now, organizations have learned that analyzing multiple data points is a vital component of revenue growth.

How Data is Personalized

Data-driven personalization is huge right now. Many businesses use data analytics to research their audience. At first, they use the data to review each customer. Then, they analyze what their intention at that particular moment is. Afterward, companies determine how the customer engaged with their brand previously.

For example, Netflix uses special algorithms that are carefully adapted to the customer’s previous selections. Based on your historical data, Netflix then suggests the customer keep on watching shows that are similar to the customer’s previous choices. This is also what Amazon is known for. The company keeps its customers coming back for more by recommending items that are chosen by analyzing the client’s purchase history.

Issues Related to Data Security

With all of the great benefits, data carries security risks. Since it’s a very valuable asset in the digital world, fraudsters and scammers use stolen data for their crimes. For this reason, data security is vital for companies and all standard users. Despite that, preventing data loss for corporate structures by implementing various security methods can be challenging.

In general, securing your data protects it from cyberattacks and anyone who tries to modify it or steal the data without gaining permission. The real question is – how to protect your business and its data from fraudsters? The first step is to focus on partnering with transparent companies.

Jumping into a serious B2B relationship isn’t easy, especially when the risk of data breaches is so high. That means parenting with the wrong company can lead you to become a money-laundering channel. To prevent fraud and the loss of data, cybersecurity specialists suggest implementing Business Verification services. Such digital tools help screen any company and its customers’ data automatically to prevent fraud in real-time.

The Final Words

Data is truly a very valuable asset in today’s world, as it helps analyze and calculate results, plan any business strategy, find out customer behavioral patterns, and, more importantly, gain revenue. As data holds power, businesses must ensure their security and prevent cyberattacks by maintaining a strict security system.