Data Privacy Starts With the Basics

Data Privacy Day is a reminder that protecting information is not just a technical concern. It is a business priority.

Organizations today rely on digital systems for communication, collaboration, customer data, and daily operations. With that reliance comes responsibility. Cybersecurity threats continue to increase, but many incidents still begin with a simple and preventable issue. Weak password practices.

At NextGen Automation, we help businesses take a proactive approach to data privacy and cybersecurity. As part of this commitment, we recently participated in a Tech Talk interview focused on one of the most common security gaps we see across organizations. Password management.

You can watch the interview and read the full article published by Kelowna Now here.
 

Why weak passwords put your business at risk

Passwords remain one of the most frequent entry points for cyberattacks. Even with modern security tools available, many businesses still rely on passwords that are easy to guess, reused across systems, or shared between employees.

These practices increase the risk of:

• Email account takeovers
• Unauthorized access to business systems
• Data breaches involving client or employee information
• Operational downtime and reputational damage

Cybersecurity does not fail because technology is unavailable. It fails when fundamentals are overlooked.

Strong password hygiene is one of the simplest ways to reduce risk across your organization

Best practices for data privacy and password security

Data Privacy Day is an ideal time to review your organization’s security basics. Small changes can significantly improve your overall cybersecurity posture.

• Create strong and unique passwords
  Passwords should be long, unique, and difficult to predict. Passphrases using a combination of words, numbers, and symbols are more secure and easier to remember than short or common passwords.
• Use a password manager
  Password managers securely store credentials and generate strong passwords. This reduces password reuse and removes the need for employees to remember multiple logins.
• Enable multi factor authentication
  Multi factor authentication adds an extra layer of security beyond passwords. Even if credentials are compromised, MFA can prevent unauthorized access.
• Review user access regularly
  Ensure employees only have access to the systems they need. Remove inactive accounts and adjust permissions as roles change.

Data privacy is an ongoing responsibility

Data Privacy Day raises awareness, but effective cybersecurity requires continuous attention. As businesses grow, adopt new tools, or expand to multiple locations, security strategies must evolve as well.

At NextGen Automation, we support organizations across Canada with:

• Managed IT services
• Cybersecurity and access control
• Secure cloud and identity solutions
• Ongoing monitoring and proactive risk management

Our approach focuses on clarity, consistency, and partnership. Technology should protect your business, not expose it to unnecessary risk.

If you are unsure where your organization stands today, a security or technology assessment is a strong first step toward better data protection.

Take the next step

If you are not sure how secure your systems are today, a technology or security assessment is the best place to start.

NextGen Automation provides local support and expert guidance for businesses across British Columbia, Alberta, and Saskatchewan, including Vancouver, the Lower Mainland, Nelson, Prince George, Kelowna, Kamloops, Victoria, Nanaimo, Courtenay, Vancouver Island, Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer, and surrounding communities.

Whether you are looking to improve password security, strengthen data privacy, or build a long term cybersecurity strategy, our team is here to help.

Book a consultation with NextGen Automation and take the first step toward stronger data protection.