FREMONT, CA: From government patents to a top-secret company recipe, intellectual property (IP) is an organization’s most valuable asset. But as more and more institutes store their data digitally, IP has become a frequent target for thefts and cyberattacks. IP is what gives an organization its exclusive competitive edge, so protecting IP against a cyberattack should be a priority for governments, businesses, and institutions. A breach of IP can result in theft of essential assets knowledge. To help keep governmental assets secure, the basic policies and procedures needed for effective IP protection are:

1. Conduction of Regular IP Reviews:

A risk analysis is mandatory to map out the organizational data and assets, to identify what information would cost the government the most if it were stolen or lost. Then evaluations are required to assess the vulnerability of assets that will determine key areas to focus for protective resources.

2. Employees’ Knowledge on IP Cybersecurity:

Humans are often the weakest link in any cybersecurity defense structure, whether deliberately, by accident, or from negligence. According to surveys, the most common ways for accidental IP breaches are through external emails and file sharing.

The organizational staff should have a clear understanding of the institutional IP, and how best it can be protected. Regular awareness training is an essential and efficient way to help prevent IP leaks.

3. Security of IP:

Whether it is on a server or in a desk drawer, the IP must be kept secure in every way—both physically and digitally. If information is confidential to the government, a watermark or label is to be applied on it that makes the IP very clear. Use of pop-up reminders and passwords to limit employee access to important databases can keep track of who has access to it.

4. Use of Right Software:

There is a great variety of software tools available to track and secure IP assets. Data loss prevention (DLP) apparatuses are now a core component of many government security services, which allow locating sensitive documents and monitoring them.

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