What are the three primary types of file sharing? And which is best for your central or local authority?

#1 – Off the shelf file sharing

In 2000, businesses spent twice as much on technology than consumers. By 2008, the spend between the two was the same. This ‘consumerisation’ of IT devices has since led to huge advances in product usability. 

However, this focus on usability often presents a problem. Because security isn’t a priority for their target demographic, consumer-grade file transfer providers aim to make large scale file transfer as simple as possible while forgoing more detailed security techniques.

That’s why they should be solely used to distribute information that’s already in the public domain or ready for public consumption.

#2 – ISO accredited file sharing

ISO, the International Organisation for Standardisation, sets the global standard for a range of products and materials. An ISO certificate states that a provider has passed a range of quality assurances.

ISO 27001 is the certificate that’s specific to information security. Using risk-based analysis, and after in-depth inspection of an organisation and its data security, it will validate an information security management system.

This certification is used by local and central government to ensure their 3rd party vendor transfers information in a way that doesn’t risk the reputation of the authority, or transmit personal information over unsafe networks.

What’s more, much sensitive government information needs to abide by data residency regulations. Personal data, for instance, will need to be kept within the EEA or in locations that have been deemed as ‘safe’ by the European Commission.

Read more: Maytech Security and Compliance: ISO 27001 Certification

#3 – PAN Government Accredited File Sharing

The MOD anticipates that 80% of government information is classed as Official or Official Sensitive, and so will need further protection to ensure that this confidential data isn’t accessed by anyone untoward.

At this stage, IT departments need to apply a ‘need to know’ principle when sharing official sensitive data – ensuring that only essential parties are able to enjoy access to the information.

Sensitive information must also be encrypted by default to ensure that it’s completely safe both at rest and in transit. Furthermore, it’s highly recommended that all sensitive information doesn’t find its way outside of the country in which its produced.

Official information must be subject to accreditation by a departmental Senior Information Risk Owner (SIRO) who judges whether the systems used protect the information sufficiently. Using a secure file sharing company that is PAN Government Accredited helps to mitigate against the risks of distributing classified information and keeps essential data safe at all times.

Choose governmental file sharing that ticks all the boxes

Maytech’s secure file sharing products are used by central governments and local authorities including the London Boroughs of Havering and Barking & Dagenham and the Department for Environmental Food and Rural Affairs to guarantee the secure, fast transfer of sensitive files.

We’re PAN Government Accredited for Official and Official Sensitive data over the internet – which means that any government department or authority can transfer data externally with third parties knowing that the appropriate security controls are in place.

Compliant with ISO 27001, while retaining market-leading usability features and administration tools, Maytech allows IT departments in government to maintain complete control of data transfer in their organisation, while streamlining processes and maximising staff productivity.

Interested? Discover how Maytech’s PAN government accredited secure file sharing can make your organisation’s data transfer safer and more efficient. Arrange a consultation with our government experts or start your free trial today.

 

Read More: Protect National Interests with Secure Content Communications