Did you know that the number of data breaches involving paper records nearly tripled in 2017? In a world where companies strive to be paperless, a lot of paper still circulates out there. When these paper records are lost or mishandled, data breaches - and all of their attendant requirements and costs - may follow.

The terms “cyber” and “data breach” are most often associated with computer systems or devices with an Internet connection. While that's not wrong, the reality is that nearly 10% of all breaches and incidents involve paper records.¹ With even the most tech savvy businesses retaining at least some paper files, no one is immune from a possible paper records breach. Fortunately, most “cyber” insurance policies cover both electronic and paper breaches.

While there are many things you can do to reduce your breach exposure, here are five items I'd recommend:

What is the next item on any Cyber best practice list? Buy and maintain a Cyber Insurance policy, for the paper and electronic exposures in your business.

If you’d like to read more on this topic, stay tuned for the next blog in our Cyber Education series coming later this month. In the meantime, as always, please reach out with any questions.

Endnotes

1. Net Diligence 2017 Claims Study Public Edition.
2. Verizon 2017 Data Breach Investigations Report, 10th Edition.
3. Ibid.
4. Ibid.