Search
 

Beware of Memory Sticks

With job loss fears high, workers could be tempted to take sensitive corporate data to use in negotiating a job with a future employer.

By Beth Karlin | Updated on January 01, 2009

As the specter of layoffs looms large, so does the temptation to steal corporate secrets–making data security a high priority in risky times, industry watchers say. Fearful workers hope to trade confidential information for new jobs at competing organizations. Others pilfer out of spite. “Motivation is strong in recessionary times,” says Mark Lobel, a PricewaterhouseCoopers security expert. Strong motivation, combined with moral rationalization and easy access, are key factors spurring workers to snoop around for sensitive data, says Lobel. “You can’t do much about motivation and rationalization, but you can cut off access,” he says. He recommends clients do just that.

And they should, according to the results of a recent Cyber-Ark Software survey. Seventy-one percent of 600 office workers polled in New York City, London and Amsterdam acknowledged they “definitely” would steal corporate data if faced with immediate firing. Many don’t wait to get the boot.

Complete your profile to continue reading and get FREE access to Treasury & Risk, part of your ALM digital membership.

Your access to unlimited Treasury & Risk content isn’t changing.
Once you are an ALM digital member, you’ll receive:

  • Critical Treasury & Risk information including in-depth analysis of treasury and finance best practices, case studies with corporate innovators, informative newsletters, educational webcasts and videos, and resources from industry leaders.
  • Exclusive discounts on ALM and Treasury & Risk events.
  • Access to other award-winning ALM websites including PropertyCasualty360.com and Law.com.

Already have an account?

NOT FOR REPRINT

© 2023 ALM Global, LLC, All Rights Reserved. Request academic re-use from www.copyright.com. All other uses, submit a request to [email protected]. For more information visit Asset & Logo Licensing.

 

Recommended Stories

How To Build a Compliance Culture in Your Organization

How To Build a Compliance Culture in Your Organization

Lana Shneydina |

In general, a compliance culture will help you avoid costly pitfalls like having to rebuild a product or service offering due to legal issues or negative publicity; it will also lower the risk of lost trust and lawsuits, which can be game-ending.

Treasury & Risk

Join Treasury & Risk

Don’t miss crucial treasury and finance news along with in-depth analysis and insights you need to make informed treasury decisions. Join Treasury & Risk now!

  • Free unlimited access to Treasury & Risk including case studies with corporate innovators, informative newsletters, educational webcasts, and resources from industry leaders.
  • Exclusive discounts on ALM and Treasury & Risk events.
  • Access to other award-winning ALM publications including PropertyCasualty360.com and Law.com.

Already have an account? Sign In Now
Join Treasury & Risk

Copyright © 2023 ALM Global, LLC. All Rights Reserved.