Data sharing boasts a number of benefits that include easily being able to allow a trusted friend or colleague to share your cellular internet connection when they’re in a bind. But because of the very fact that you are “sharing,” it’s incredibly important to also know the risks involved and to mitigate them when possible. You shouldn’t walk around all day every day with each shared setting enabled. And doing do puts you at risk of having your data stolen or compromised. “With technology rapidly evolving and continuing to create new avenues for individuals, groups, and companies to be more efficient and transparent, it is important to understand the benefits and risks of data sharing,” says Tech Security Expert Sydney Buchel, a senior consultant at BARR Advisory. “A good rule of thumb is to automatically disable all sharing settings across your devices unless and until the moment they’re needed.” Buchel outlines a few notable shared settings you should always have off.
On iPhones:
Tracking
“Apple phones are auto-set with ‘identifier for advertisers’ functionality that shares your data with advertisers,” Buchel says. “There has been a lot of discussion around what data is actually shared and pushback from critics who say this function is enforced on users without consent. Within your Privacy settings, ensure ‘Tracking’ is turned off to protect your data.”
Hotspot
Hotspots can be exploited by bad actors to access your network, Buchel warns. “Ensure your hotspot is secured with a strong password that only you know and that it’s turned off when not in use,” Buchel says. “On the flip side, do not join unknown hotspots, giving a potential hacker access to your data.”
On Laptops:
“When I think of sharing settings on my laptop, I think of uploading and downloading files from the web,” Buchel says. “Ensuring your laptop has antivirus software installed to protect against known malware and attacks is a good first step.”
Additionally, Buchel says, Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP), also called SSH File Transfer Protocol, is a network protocol for accessing, transferring, and managing files on remote systems. “SFTP allows businesses to securely transfer billing data, funds, and data recovery files,” Buchel says. “Check with your company to see what they have to offer and ensure your device is up to date with their internal security policy.”
On Shared drives:
Shared drives are so convenient when working and collaborating with others. But there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your privacy and safety. “When creating shared folders or documents, the best way to protect your files is to automatically lock down access by controlling who can read or edit within the document settings,” Buchel says. “Some tools even let you go as far as setting password requirements to access certain files. Ensure you continuously monitor access to files and folders to ensure only authorized users can view and edit.”
Why is it important to turn these settings off?
Unauthorized data sharing between devices can potentially compromise personal, company, or client data and result in a slew of consequences, from a leak of confidential information to identity theft, financial loss, damage to the company’s reputation, viruses, and even malware attacks, Buchel says.
“By leaving data and device sharing settings on and unmonitored on your personal or company devices, you open the door to unnecessary risks,” Buchel says. “Keep your devices locked tight and share data only when needed and with authorized parties.”
