‘The Tidal Wave Coming At Everybody:’ The Issue of Data Sprawl and Identity

Introduction

In the digital age, we generate vast amounts of data every day. From our online purchases to our social media posts, our every move leaves a digital trace. This phenomenon, known as data sprawl, is creating a major challenge for organizations and individuals alike.

Data sprawl makes it difficult to manage, secure, and analyze data. It can also lead to data breaches and identity theft. As a result, organizations are increasingly looking for ways to control data sprawl and protect their data and their customers' data.

The Causes of Data Sprawl

There are a number of factors that contribute to data sprawl, including:

• The increasing use of cloud computing
• The proliferation of mobile devices
• The growth of social media
• The Internet of Things (IoT)

Each of these factors is contributing to the exponential growth of data. As a result, organizations are facing a major challenge in managing and securing their data.

The Challenges of Data Sprawl

Data sprawl creates a number of challenges for organizations, including:

• Increased cost: Data sprawl can lead to increased costs for storage, management, and security.
• Reduced efficiency: Data sprawl can make it difficult to find and access the data you need, which can lead to reduced efficiency.
• Increased risk: Data sprawl can increase the risk of data breaches and identity theft.

These challenges can have a significant impact on an organization's bottom line. In fact, a recent study by the Ponemon Institute found that data sprawl costs organizations an average of $3.3 million per year.

The Solution to Data Sprawl

The solution to data sprawl is to implement a data governance strategy. A good data governance strategy will help you to:

• Identify and classify your data
• Develop policies and procedures for managing your data
• Implement technologies to help you manage and secure your data

By implementing a data governance strategy, you can take control of data sprawl and reduce the risks associated with it.

Conclusion

Data sprawl is a major challenge for organizations and individuals alike. However, by implementing a data governance strategy, you can take control of data sprawl and reduce the risks associated with it.

If you don't address the issue of data sprawl, you will be at risk of data breaches, identity theft, and other security risks. Take action today to protect your data and your organization.