Best Ways to Ensure Data Security in BPOs

Outsourcing is getting very popular with most of the large companies as well as the SMEs. Businesses understand the advantages of outsourcing, especially the cost-effectiveness which is a major factor favoring outsourcing. One of the important factors that remain a risk with outsourcing is data security. Data is very important for all businesses as they outsource data entry primarily to Offshore Outsourcing Services. Different types of data, such as customer information, product information and pricing information are included in this. Such information can be crucial as far as the parent company is concerned and their confidentiality is of prime importance for their survival. Here are some steps that can be insisted upon the outsourcing company for ensuring Data Security:

Insist on a Data Security Clause in the legal agreement

All companies bind the outsourcing company with a legal agreement where the different terms and conditions of outsourcing are mentioned. The business outsourcing companies can also be bound for data security in the legal agreement. Non-disclosure Agreement or Intellectual Property rights can be insisted upon the outsourcing company which ensures data security as part of the legal compliance of the agreement.

Check the laws of Data Security and legality while outsourcing Offshore

Offshore outsourcing, especially to countries like India, is more considered by most of the companies as it helps to reduce the cost factor without affecting the quality of deliverables. But while considering business outsourcing to offshore centers, the parent company needs to check the laws of the country where it is outsourced. If the country supports strong Data Security laws, they can go ahead with outsourcing.

Insist on Tools and Technology for Data Security

There are many tools and technology available in the market across the world that can be adopted for better data security. The parent company can insist that the data entry companies deploy the latest tools and technology that supports maximum Data Security. The latest phishing and malware protection software and a leak-proof network will curb the risk to a large extend.

Check the Risk Management Policy of Outsourcing Company

Make sure you go through the risk management policy of the outsourcing company to check on how they will ensure data security in case of a disaster. A solid risk management policy assures that the outsourcing company is professionally managed and hence, the risk on data security is much lesser.

Get the users to use your network and software

Create data entry users in your website and let them use it from offshore or on-site to input information. This way, you can control the access to only specific users who will input the data into your secured servers. Here, the only risk is of giving access to your system from an off-shoring service provider as against ensuring data security which can be controlled by your company. Your company’s server can have the best security technology installed which will take care of the malware and hacking issues.

Periodic Backup

One of the biggest threats to information is its non-availability, especially during a crucial circumstance. Periodic backup of information will make sure that data is secure and available anytime.