Your experimental data matters: how can you protect it all, throughout its entire lifecycle, wherever it is?
In the realm of scientific research and drug discovery, experimental data is the lifeblood of progress. Laboratories, whether in academia or industry, conduct experiments on an industrial scale, generating vast volumes of data that provide invaluable insights into disease pathways, the functions and interactions of various compounds, etc.
Imagine a scenario where a pharmaceutical company's research data on a potential breakthrough drug is compromised due to a cyberattack. This breach not only exposes the data to the public but also jeopardizes the competitive advantage that the company had maintained through extensive research efforts. The risks are clear: data breaches can be devastating, resulting in the loss of time, resources, and valuable opportunities.
This example underscores the critical need to protect this data, a significant asset for any pharmaceutical company, against all types of risks throughout its data lifecycle and regardless of storage location.
What is information security?
Information security is the practice of protecting digital information from unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, or destruction. It's about ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data. For laboratories dealing with experimental data, it becomes crucial to guard against cyber threats, breaches, and loss. Recent trends show an alarming increase in data breaches within the pharmaceutical sector, emphasizing the need for robust security measures.
Best practices for information security
To mitigate risks associated with experimental data, laboratories must think about implementing multiple practices in information security. Here are the common key strategies:
Access Control
Implement strict access control measures, such as role-based access control and user authentication protocols, including biometric authentication or two-factor authentication, to ensure that only authorized personnel can access sensitive data.
Data Encryption
Encrypt data both in transit and at rest using methods like AES (Advanced Encryption Standard), which is preferred due to its balance of security and efficiency.
Regular Backups
Set up automated and regular backups on internal infrastructure. Nowadays, it is also important to consider cloud storage options, which offer scalability and remote access, though they also demand careful security evaluation.
Employee Training
Train staff in security best practices to foster a security-first culture. Awareness programs and ongoing training are essential in keeping the team informed and vigilant.
Incident Response Plan
Develop and regularly update a robust incident response plan detailing actions, responsibilities, and communication strategies for a swift and effective response to security breaches.
But in an open world where scientific and technological collaboration abounds, the focus on information security cannot stop at the company gates. That is why it is important also to consider information security when partnering.
How to collaborate securely?
When collaborating with a third party, it is, of course, imperative to ensure optimal compliance with security processes. Relying on certifications can help save time when evaluating security requirements. ISO 27001 certification is a must in this context, as it indicates adherence to rigorous security standards.
Collaborating also brings other benefits, such as:
Cost-Effectiveness
Avoid the high costs of developing and maintaining in-house software solutions. External providers have the expertise to handle security challenges, saving laboratories valuable resources.
Enhanced Security
Security is a core focus for these providers, who invest heavily in protecting your data. They stay updated with the latest threats and security measures, ensuring your experimental data remains secure.
Maintenance and Support
All software maintenance and support are managed by the provider, saving you time and resources. You can focus on research and innovation, knowing that your data's security is in capable hands.
Conclusion
Protecting your research data is not just good practice; it's a necessity. With the vast amounts of data holding keys to scientific breakthroughs, securing this information is paramount. Choosing a certified provider, like Discngine with its ISO 27001 certification, is a proactive step in safeguarding your experimental data. Implementing these best practices and collaborating with trusted partners ensures the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of your invaluable data, paving the way for groundbreaking discoveries in research and drug discovery.
