When sensitive information leaks, it can create an environment of distrust and damage reputation. Documents can be exposed via many methods, from internal emails forwarded externally to confidential attachments sent to the wrong recipients. While this type of leak may be intentional, it is not always. Even well-intentioned employees can accidentally release information unintentionally – for example, when sharing product material online or printing project documents in public areas.
One of the most damaging leaks of the week was the publication of two sets of classified US intelligence documents on social media platforms. According to reports, the material is related to the war in Ukraine and also includes foreign intelligence assessments of allies like South Korea and Israel.
The Pentagon is investigating how the material was shared. A spokesperson for the department told CNN that they are “working to determine how these files were released to ensure our nation’s security.”
Whether or not this latest release was deliberate, it shows that the US needs to be more vigilant when it comes to data protection. Leaks can be damaging to any company, and the best way to mitigate the impact is to respond quickly and decisively.
The first hours of a crisis are vital and the way in which an organization handles this situation is critical to restoring trust, defensibility and legal compliance. A structured, measured response minimizes risk, protects evidence and reduces the chance of tipping off the source.