Data is a huge commodity these days. Businesses ask clients to trust them with personal data and aim to safeguard it. But sometimes, things go wrong. Data breaches can happen to any company, no matter how large or small. So, whether you have a basic eCommerce site on WordPress or a multinational company, you might be at risk.
We only have to consider the Equifax scandal last year, or the latest Facebook breach. So, clearly, breaches can happen no matter what safeguards are in place. The question is how you deal with a breach so that the outcome is more positive for your company.
Own Up as Quickly as Possible
It is hard to admit that there has been a problem, but you will find that clients prefer that you are forthright with them. Alerting them sooner rather than later can help to reduce the potential impact of the information being stolen.
People are more understanding than you might think if you own up and take responsibility. If, on the other hand, you just try and cover it up, and they find out later, their patience will wear thin.
So, find out what happened and figure out what weakness was exploited. Then explain this to your clients. If it was because your IT department slipped up, you need to tell them that.
Honesty in this kind of situation is always the best option.
Take Steps to Make Sure It Doesn’t Happen Again
You will need to overhaul your security procedures so that nothing like that ever happens again. Getting a good internet security solution like BitDefender is the first step you should take (if you haven’t already), and potentially consulting a cybersecurity expert is always a good idea. While you do not need to go into a very detailed account of the new security measures you are taking, you do need to give your clients some idea of how you plan to safeguard their information in future.
Rebuild the Relationship
It is going to take a while for clients to want to start trusting your company again, especially if it was financial details that were exposed. Think of ways to start building trust again. Perhaps, for example, you could offer PayPal as an alternative payment option for your clients.
Look for ways to start rebuilding the relationship by allowing clients to engage in an open dialogue. If they have questions, answer them as fully and quickly as you are able. Make sure that they understand you are doing everything you can to repair the relationship and ensure that such a breach does not happen again.
Infographic URL: https://bestvpns.co.uk/facts-about-cyber-crimes/
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Best wishes,
Josh Wardini
Community Manager at Webmastersjury
About me Location Incapable Internet Enthusiast | Re-Designer of the World Around | Bodybuilder trapped in a Computer Geek’s Body.