Mysterious figure wearing a Guy Fawkes mask, illuminated by computer screens in a dark room.
| |

Breach Risk Increases With Ageing Data

ByPrivacyiQ

The older the data, the more dangerous it becomes. Here’s why ageing data is a hidden security risk.

Most cyber breaches don’t happen with fresh data — they happen with old, forgotten, poorly protected files.

Why?

  • Old data is often stored in legacy systems
  • Security patches may be outdated
  • Access controls may no longer apply

Retention = risk control. Regularly deleting old personal data significantly reduces the impact of a breach — both legally and reputationally.

The less you keep, the less you can lose.

Similar Posts

Red block with 'DELETE' text on a black background, showcasing minimalism.
|

Data Minimisation and Retention Go Hand in Hand

ByPrivacyiQ

Minimising data doesn’t stop at collection — it includes timely deletion. Here’s how to tie the two together. Most teams know the data minimisation principle — collect only what you need. But it doesn’t stop there. Minimisation + Retention = Risk Reduction Retaining unnecessary data negates the benefit of collecting less in the first place….

A dramatic depiction of a hand pressed against a foggy, illuminated window.
|

Top 5 Causes of Data Breaches in Professional Services

ByPrivacyiQ

Knowing where breaches start is half the battle. These five causes account for most incidents in professional firms. Most data breaches stem from everyday errors — not hackers. In professional services, the top five causes include: All of these can be reduced with training, tech, and clear policy enforcement.

Bushfire in Australia
| |

Retention and Subject Access Requests: What You Don’t Keep Can’t Hurt You

ByPrivacyiQ

Subject access requests are easier (and cheaper) if you delete what you no longer need. Here’s why that’s strategic. Subject access requests (SARs) are rising — and they are expensive. But here’s the secret: the less data you hold, the less you have to search, redact, and disclose. Retention policies don’t just reduce legal risk….

A lively group of people gathers in an outdoor setting during daytime.
|

Are You Holding Employee Data Too Long? UK GDPR Says Think Again

ByPrivacyiQ

Professional services firms often retain employee data longer than necessary. Here’s what UK GDPR requires and how to mitigate risk. Employee data is a compliance blind spot for many professional services firms. From CVs and appraisal notes to disciplinary records, HR systems often store personal data far beyond its useful life — and well beyond…

Smiling woman holding eyeglasses and clipboard in a contemporary office.

What “No Longer Necessary” Really Means Under GDPR

ByPrivacyiQ

The UK GDPR says don’t keep data longer than needed. But what does that actually mean in practice? UK GDPR Article 5 says personal data must be “kept no longer than is necessary.” But who defines necessary? Interpretation depends on: There’s no universal timeline — only justifiable ones. If your retention lacks clear purpose or…