Classification of Information

In companies, numerous pieces of information circulate, often in different departments and forms. The increasing digital processing makes it difficult for employees to keep track of what is necessary to protect sensitive data. In addition to classic paper documents, digital data is now ubiquitous and stored and processed in various systems. The criticality of this information is often not adequately considered, although its loss or misuse can have serious consequences. Particularly critical data can be found in the areas of development, production, personnel, and management, where strategic planning, corporate goals, and decisions about mergers or acquisitions require special protection. Simply put, sensitive information.

The effects of data loss or unauthorized disclosure of this information are not only of a financial nature. The loss of trust among customers and a damaged corporate reputation can have long-term consequences that are difficult to measure and, in the worst case, threaten the survival of the company. To counteract this threat, companies must classify information specifically and implement appropriate protective measures. Only when it is clear which data is collected and used can sensible security strategies be developed.

A structured classification facilitates the handling of sensitive information. Instead of creating complex systems, a simple and practical classification is recommended, such as: Public, Internal, Confidential, and Strictly Confidential. Each company should decide based on its individual requirements which levels are necessary to ensure effective data protection.

One last point should not be underestimated in this whole topic: the training of employees for the application of classification. Without the knowledge and sensitization of employees for this topic, a consistent classification of information is hardly possible. Unfortunately, this point is often overlooked in all organizational and technical requirements.

In summary, it can be represented in a diagram: