Many boards still send sensitive internal governance communications via unsecure channels for communication. Diligent Corporation released a report which found that 56 percent board members use personal emails to communicate with the board. Even senior executives and governance professionals are also doing this. This is a serious risk that must be addressed.
It is essential to convince board members of the importance of secure communication. This includes educating them on how their current practices make them vulnerable to data breach and helping them comprehend how much it costs in terms of lost time, cyberattacks, and compliance violations.
Boards need to be aware that they are a prime targets for cyber criminals. Cybercriminals target prominent people such as executives and directors of boards since they can access sensitive information of value to them. This makes them a great victim of ransomware attacks, which are when criminals threaten to release confidential information unless they get a payment.
To avoid this, it’s important that the board consider adopting an administration platform which replaces emails and text messaging with a fortified system of record that utilizes encrypted data delivery and a custom-built mobile app. This eliminates the necessity to share confidential or private information through unsecure email or document management systems managed by IT departments of the company. It also provides a separate platform that will allow boards to continue to lead during times of crisis.