In a startling disclosure, Malaysia’s UiTM recently admitted to a data leak that exposed the personal information of nearly 12,000 applicants. This incident has triggered worries about data privacy and security, given that the education sector in Malaysia is frequently targeted by ransomware groups, as indicated in Palo Alto Networks’ Ransomware report.
UiTM Data Leak Reveals Deep-Set Issues in Malaysia’s Education Sector
The incident underscores how readily personal data can be compromised. While no substantial damage has been reported yet, this occurrence is a stark reminder for organisations handling sensitive data to implement robust security measures to protect their users’ information.
Crucial Lessons from the Data Breach
David Rajoo, Palo Alto Networks ASEAN Systems Engineering Head, Malaysia/Cortex, regarding the incident, asserted, “Organisations, especially those in the education sector, must develop an effective security strategy to uphold the integrity of their data whether it is at rest, in use, or in motion. Consistently upgrading cybersecurity defences is vital to keep up with evolving threats, stay ahead of the attack curve and minimise the possibilities of data breaches.”
Palo Alto Networks’ Insights on Security Practices
According to another report by Palo Alto Networks, a staggering 80% of security alerts originate from users repeating the same mistakes. In order to prevent recurring data breaches in Malaysia, organisations must start from the grassroots level, instilling necessary education and training in their employees.
Recommendations for Enhancing Cybersecurity Measures
Among the recommended measures are digital training (covering password management, secure file sharing, and safe browsing practices), phishing link training (to recognise and avoid phishing attacks), and regular cybersecurity awareness initiatives.
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David highlighted the urgency for Malaysians and organisations alike to fortify their cybersecurity measures. He stated that the recent breach underscores the need for Malaysia to enhance its cybersecurity posture, whether through individual data hygiene awareness or organisation-wide cybersecurity investment.
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