SWOT ANALYSIS - IT SECURITY IN UK

In an attempt to achieve efficiency and ultimate customer service, people are handing more and more personal data to local authorities more than ever before. This presents an immediate risk many vulnerable users. This strategic SWOT analysis discusses IT security in the UK and provides recommendations.

STRENGTHS

1.       Businesses have strong network controls

2.       Have vulnerability management

3.       Comprehensive policies

4.       Executive support

WEAKNESSES

1.       Weak application Security

2.       Integration into the System Development Life Cycle (SDLC)

3.       Lack of comprehensive data loss prevention solutions

OPPORTUNITIES

1.       Incident Response

2.       Secure coding training and mentoring

3.       Web application firewall implementation

4.       Investment and development research

THREATS

1.       External threats to the computer environment

2.       Data breach

3.       Data damage

The data protection act states that whenever information is collected it should be done so for legitimate purposes. There are a number of proposes of policy recommendations which would help deter wrongful access of personal information.

Firstly, there should be a custodial sentence for serious data breaches, as current penalties do not deter individuals who are considering breaking the law. 

Secondly, serious data breaches should result in a criminal record. Current penalties show that an individual who carry out a data breach is not subject to a criminal record.

Moreover, data protection should be a mandatory training for technological organisations and businesses operating within the industry and using information technology systems for their businesses.