P2P File Sharings Has Its Risks

Peer-to-Peer (P2P) file sharing has opened up a significant breach in data security. The breach is so serious that the FTC has taken steps to notify hundreds of US businesses, of all sizes, that confidential information is freely circulating on P2P networks. This breach gives all sorts of unauthorized users access to sensitive and confidential information. For example: Jon Leibowitz, FTC Chairman, pointed out that “…health-related information, financial records, and drivers' license and social security numbers …” are visible on these P2P networks.
The existence of the data security breach underscores the issues of identity theft and fraud. The breach also underscores the legal issues and business liabilities. Closing the breach is imperative. Tony Bradley in his article “How to Stop P2P” data breaches” offers 3 sound ideas along with recommendations for closing the breach. Pay heed to Tony’s recommendations and implement them right away! Business data, especially confidential data, is an asset. It deserves even more protection than a physical asset. Lock it down!

In brief, Tony’s recommendations are:
1. Beware the Software. Remember where the P2P software comes from and remember that often it not built with the same concern for data security as commercial software. Additionally, the software can contain malware, viruses and the like. System performance issues and network performance issues can ensue.
2. Watch What You Share. The default share folder and sharing options can expose data to the world.
3. Just Don't Use It. There are legitimate uses for P2P networks. However, there is arguably no legitimate reason for accessing a P2P file-sharing system from a business network. In addition to the potential system and network performance issues, improperly configured and inadequately secured networks open you up to attack and compromise, or inadvertently exposing sensitive data.
As a final illustration, if you don’t believe this is an important business issue, then you may want to leave your wallet and credit cards on the front seat of your car and while you are at it, leave the windows down, the door unlocked and the keys in the ignition. I’m sure some unauthorized user will appreciate it.