Data in transit refers to data that is moving from one location to a further location. This includes data sent via email, such as Microsoft Teams, Skype, instant messengers like WhatsApp, and virtual channels. Data transmitted through the internet is not entirely secure, as there is a high possibility of exposure to both private and public networks. Therefore data in transit becomes a critical target for attackers.

When transferring data using FTP, it is not encrypted and can be easily intercepted, posing a risk to the confidentiality and integrity of our business data. To address this, it’s crucial to maintain an appropriate level of data protection for data in transit.

Although data is being transferred through various applications and networks, it is exposed to several risks, including:

• Insecure data transfer to unauthorized USBs and insecure websites where personal information may not be adequately protected.
• Eavesdropping attacks can compromise the packets sent over the Internet.
• Data loss because of the theft of USB devices and other media.
• Excessive sharing of information within the organization potentially leads to data leaks.
• Excessive sharing of information with vendors, partners, and other external stakeholders.
• Data loss is because of the malicious activities of hackers.
• Compromises in data security caused by malicious programs like malware and adware lead to data breaches.

Best Practices of Data in Transit

• Build a Strong Foundation: Utilize basic cybersecurity tools such as firewalls and authentication to defend against malicious attacks and intrusion attempts. Firewalls act as security gateways that protect web-based activities and data transfers.
• Use automatic checks: Modern data protection technology includes automatic checks that block malicious data, alert users to potential risks, and review files before they are sent. This helps companies securely manage email continuity, enhance data removal processes, and secure data transfers.
• Email Encryption is Essential: Encrypting emails ensures the safety of their content, including encrypted attachments that unauthorized individuals cannot access. Email encryption is essential for email transfers, directory synchronization, and bookkeeping to enhance encryption, security, and distribution.
• Data Loss Prevention (DLP): Implement Data Loss Prevention solutions to encrypt data, secure data transfers, and monitor client activities such as print events. DLP scans all emails and their attachments using code changes based on keywords, data hashes, pattern matching, and dictionaries to identify potential leaks. Depending on the organization’s policy, suspicious emails may be blocked, quarantined for review, or forwarded via a secure messaging service.
• Cloud Access Security Agent: Utilize a Cloud Access Security Agent to monitor data in the cloud. In addition to monitoring user activities in the cloud and ensuring network communication security, these tools keep security protocols up to date, meeting your network protection requirements. Security tools are employed to safeguard data when it leaves your organization’s environment.

By following these best practices, you can significantly enhance data security in transit, safeguarding your organization’s valuable information from potential threats and breaches.

Author details- Sinu Das M is a Senior Systems Engineer, with 3 years of experience. Possess extensive knowledge of JAVA, Angular, and  SQL Technologies. Over the past 2 years, they have been working on data mining of the IEDPS Data Privacy Suite.