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Doug Wendt is a co-founder and senior partner with Wendt Partners.
The web event held on October 10, 2024, tackled the growing concerns around CRM security in today’s hybrid work environments.
Hosted by Wendt Partners, the session featured Doug Wendt, President of Wendt Partners, Drew Danner, CEO of BD Emerson, and Heather Howland, VP of Marketing at Venn. The discussion focused on how companies can protect customer data and navigate IT security in the era of remote work. Here’s an expanded overview of the key discussions.
CRMs: A Critical Data Risk
While CRMs are essential for managing customer relationships, they also pose a significant data risk. Many companies store sensitive customer information, including payment details and personal identifiers, within their CRM systems. This makes them a prime target for cybercriminals. Mismanaged access to these systems can lead to data breaches, which can be financially devastating. Organizations must ensure that security protocols around CRM data are as stringent as those used for other critical platforms.
The New Challenges of Remote Work
The rise of remote and hybrid work has introduced new IT security challenges. Many employees now use personal devices for work, increasing the risk of data exposure. Solutions like Ven’s secure enclave technology create a safe, encrypted workspace on personal devices, keeping work data separate from personal usage. This approach allows companies to support remote employees without compromising security or personal privacy.
The Importance of Privacy and Compliance
With increasing data privacy regulations such as GDPR and new U.S. state laws, businesses must prioritize compliance to avoid hefty fines and legal repercussions. These laws give individuals control over their data, including the right to request its deletion. Companies must stay up-to-date on privacy regulations and ensure they have processes in place to protect and manage customer data effectively, thus maintaining compliance and avoiding legal risks.
Securing Data in CRM Integrations
As CRMs integrate with other platforms—such as marketing automation, financial systems, and student management software—companies must be mindful of the risks this data sharing creates. Each integration expands the attack surface for hackers. To protect sensitive data, businesses should apply strong security protocols across all systems, ensuring that integration doesn’t compromise security.
Process Is More Important Than Technology
While advanced security tools are critical, human behavior and structured processes are equally important. The event emphasized that regular access reviews, ensuring employees only have access to what they need, and incident response training are vital steps in securing data. Simple practices like these help reduce the risk of human error, which is often a major vulnerability in IT security.
Beyond Technology: Compliance and Security Standards
The panelists discussed the value of adhering to standards like SOC 2 and ISO 27001, noting that while certifications are important, they should not be the ultimate goal. These standards help demonstrate a commitment to security, but true protection comes from creating a robust, ongoing security culture. Companies need to regularly review and update their policies, train employees, and remain vigilant in keeping up with industry standards to ensure long-term security.
Final Thoughts
Protecting your CRM system is essential in today’s digital landscape. With remote work on the rise, securing customer data requires a comprehensive approach that includes technology, strict processes, and compliance with privacy regulations. Businesses must focus on embedding security best practices into their daily operations to safeguard their data and ensure the trust of their customers.
