Controlled Access to Confidential Data
Access restrictions to data are essential in keeping confidential information safe and secure. They are used to limit access to data to only individuals who have earned that right through a thorough vetting process.
This includes the vetting of projects, training for researchers and the use of physical or virtual secure lab environments. In some cases, a publication embargo is necessary to safeguard research findings.
There are a variety of access control models are available which include Discretionary access Control (DAC), where the owner or administrator determines who can access specific systems, data or resources. This model allows for flexibility but it also leads to security issues as individuals might unintentionally allow access to people who shouldn’t. Mandatory Access Control is a non-discretionary system that is commonly used in military and government settings. Access is controlled according to information classifications and clearance levels.
Access control is also critical in meeting the requirements of industry compliance to protect information and ensure security. By implementing best practices for access control and adhering to established guidelines, organizations can demonstrate that they are in compliance with audits and inspections. They also can avoid penalties and fines and maintain trust among customers or clients. This is especially important when working in environments under the control of regulations such as GDPR, HIPAA, and PCI DSS. By reviewing and updating regularly the access rights of current and former employees organizations can ensure that sensitive data is not exposed to unauthorized users. This requires a careful review of permissions, and ensuring that access is automatically deprovisioned when employees leave the company or change roles.
