Data is one of a company’s most valuable assets, and protecting a database is not just a recommendation but a necessity.
Leaks, unauthorized access, and targeted attacks are commonplace, and a compromised database can result in significant financial loss or irreparable damage to a company’s reputation.
Whether we’re talking about financial information, personal customer data, or intellectual property, the reality is there’s no room for error. Databases are the digital heart of many organizations, and understanding how to protect a database effectively has become an essential part of any serious technology strategy.
It’s worth considering a tool that can make a difference in protecting a database from external threats: Kartos, developed by Enthec. Kartos is a continuous cyber surveillance tool designed for businesses and is part of the Continuous Threat Exposure Management (CTEM) approach.
Do you want to know how to effectively protect a database? Join us as we explore 5 essential practices for keeping your most valuable digital assets safe.
1. Access control: less is more
One of the basic safety rules is providing the minimum necessary access.. Not all employees or collaborators need access to the entire database. Therefore, it is essential to implement a clear and strict privilege control policy.
How to put it into practice?
- Define user profiles according to responsibilities.
- Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) systems.
- Record and review access periodically.
- Automate the expiration of temporary permits.
Misconfigured access can open a direct door to attackers.. Therefore, it is advisable to audit this aspect regularly and apply the principle of least privilege.
2. Data encryption: an extra layer that makes the difference
Although it sounds technical, data encryption simply converts said data into an unreadable format for those without the proper password. And it’s one of the pillars of protecting a database.
Two types of encryption you should consider
- Encryption at rest: Protects stored data, even if the server is physically accessed.
- Encryption in transit: protects information that travels between the database and users or applications.
Both are necessary, especially if you use sensitive or regulated data (such as medical, financial, or personal identifier information).
3. Secure and frequent backups
Nobody wants that day to come… but sometimes it happens: a system failure, a ransomware attack, or an unforeseen catastrophe. And if you don’t have a recent backup, the consequences can be devastating.
Good backup practices
- Automate daily or weekly backups, depending on activity level.
- Store copies in separate environments (ideally in the cloud and on-premises).
- Periodically test the restoration processes.
- Make sure your copies are also encrypted and protected.
A well-executed backup is the lifeline that allows you to recover critical information and continue operating without too many setbacks.
4. Active monitoring and incident response
A key aspect of database protection is anticipating incidents and detecting warning signs before it is too late.
Cyberattacks don’t always leave visible signs. In fact, attackers often infiltrate for weeks before being detected. That’s why continuous monitoring is essential to alert you to unusual behavior.
This is where solutions like Kartos come into play.
Kartos stays ahead of threats by detecting data breaches or vulnerabilities exposed in public and hidden sources on the Internet. With this information, the security team can act proactively, avoiding greater damages.
In addition, an incident response plan, which defines roles, steps to follow, and internal and external communication in case something goes wrong, is highly recommended.
Rapid detection and response can distinguish between a scare and a major crisis.
5. Updates and patches: small gestures, big impact
Many cyberattacks take advantage of known bugs in the software,which could have been avoided with a simple update. However, these tasks are often postponed due to convenience or lack of planning… until it’s too late.
Tips to keep everything up to date
- Turn on automatic updates whenever possible.
- Schedule regular reviews of critical patches.
- Prioritize updates to systems that manage sensitive data.
Outdated software is like a door that is not closed correctly: It seems safe, but anyone with bad intentions can get in.
Why is it so important to know how to protect a database?
The answer is clear: because data is the new gold.. Whether you run a small business or a large corporation, risks are present, and cyber criminals are relentless. Furthermore, current legislation (such as the General Data Protection Regulation or GDPR) requires active measures to safeguard the privacy and integrity of information.
By applying these five practices, you’ll be taking concrete steps to reduce your risk exposure, comply with regulations, and maintain the trust of your customers and partners.
What if you don’t know where to start?
Not all companies have technical teams capable of implementing these measures independently. That’s why there are solutions such as Kartos by Enthec, which allows for complete visibility of the exposure risk without the need for a cybersecurity expert.
Kartos detects vulnerabilities in real time, prioritizes threats according to their risk level, and facilitates corrective actions—all from a clear, accessible dashboard designed for informed decision-making.
Knowing how to protect a database is no longer knowledge reserved solely for technical profiles: it is a cross-cutting priority that affects the entire organization, from IT to management. It is a strategic necessity for any company that values its digital assets. With good practices, appropriate tools like Kartos, and a proactive approach, it’s possible to drastically reduce risks and anticipate problems before they occur.
Don’t wait for a data breach to take action. Your data’s security deserves constant attention and professional solutions.
Do you want us to help you protect your most important digital assets? Contact us and start building a solid defense.