Security of Data (Edexcel IGCSE Accounting)

Revision Note

Dan Finlay

Written by: Dan Finlay

Reviewed by: Lucy Kirkham

Security Issues

What are the security issues a business faces when using a computerised system?

  • Storing financial data in a computerised system can present a range of issues, including:

    • Data could be lost

      • The information could be accidentally deleted

      • The user might forget to save after entering the information

      • There might be a technical issue while data is being entered

    • Confidential information might be shared

      • The user might access the information on their own personal devices

        • The information might be seen by other users of those devices

      • The information might be sent to the wrong person via email

    • Data might be accessed by others

      • Passwords might be guessed by others

      • Data could be hacked

Methods of Protecting Data

How can a business protect the security of its electronic data?

  • Firewalls

    • A firewall is a security system that monitors both incoming and outgoing computer network traffic

      • They can help protect networks from hackers

      • They can help prevent viruses and spyware

  • Antivirus and anti-spyware software

    • A virus is a simple program made to harm a computer system which spreads by duplicating and attaching itself to files

    • Spyware is software that enters a user's computer, gathers data from the device and user, and sends it to third parties without their consent

    • Software that detects and removes viruses and spyware from computers should be installed

  • The business should use secure passwords

    • Passwords should not be shared or written-down

    • Passwords should be complex, including a mixture of characters

    • Passwords should be changed regularly

A secure password is used when working on a computer

How can a business prevent the loss of its electronic data?

  • Users should save regularly

    • This prevents data from being accidentally deleted

  • The business should back up their data at regular intervals

    • They could save a copy on an external hard drive

    • They could save a copy to a secure cloud-based service

  • Data should be password-protected or encrypted

    • This prevents files from being edited by people other than designated users

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Dan Finlay

Author: Dan Finlay

Expertise: Maths Lead

Dan graduated from the University of Oxford with a First class degree in mathematics. As well as teaching maths for over 8 years, Dan has marked a range of exams for Edexcel, tutored students and taught A Level Accounting. Dan has a keen interest in statistics and probability and their real-life applications.

Lucy Kirkham

Author: Lucy Kirkham

Expertise: Head of STEM

Lucy has been a passionate Maths teacher for over 12 years, teaching maths across the UK and abroad helping to engage, interest and develop confidence in the subject at all levels.Working as a Head of Department and then Director of Maths, Lucy has advised schools and academy trusts in both Scotland and the East Midlands, where her role was to support and coach teachers to improve Maths teaching for all.