The Growing importance of cybersecurity in HR and recruitment tech

The growing adoption of HR technology has transformed workforce management. However, these advancements can introduce cybersecurity risks if robust security measures aren’t in place, WorkPro writes.

Hiring teams handle vast amounts of sensitive information and are therefore a prime target for cyber criminals.

The shift to remote work during the pandemic further complicated cybersecurity, as employees often use personal devices and potentially less secure networks, increasing the vulnerability of personal and corporate data.

This makes it crucial for organisations to implement and adhere to strong remote access protocols and ensure all employees receive proper cybersecurity training.

Privacy regulations impose strict guidelines on the collection, use and storage of employee data.

Non-compliance can result in severe penalties, so all teams must collaborate to ensure data handling processes meet regulatory standards and are regularly reviewed.

Beyond technology and compliance, leaders must play a role in fostering a strong security culture.

From onboarding to ongoing training, ensuring employees understand the importance of security, including cybersecurity and adherence to company policies and procedures.

A security-aware workforce is the first line of defence against cyber threats, reinforcing the organisation’s overall security posture.

How Recruitment Companies Can Protect Data

To secure candidate, client, and employee data, recruitment companies should adopt comprehensive data protection strategies:

• Develop a Data Protection Policy: Set guidelines for collecting, storing, and accessing personal data, including security measures and an incident response plan.

• Limit Data Collection: Gather and maintain only necessary data. Regularly review and delete data in line with Government and company requirements.

• Use Secure Platforms: Choose third-party software and confirm their security policy and procedures.

• Train Employees: Provide regular training on data handling and secure communication. Ensure all employees sign confidentiality agreements.

• Monitor and Audit Data Access: Implement strict access controls and conduct regular audits to ensure proper data management.

• Obtain Consent and Be Transparent: Clearly communicate with candidates, staff and clients on how data is collected and handled Obtain explicit consent before processing data.

At WorkPro, protecting sensitive data is a priority. Our recent ISO 27001:2022 accreditation emphasises our commitment to a rigorous security framework.

Additionally, we conduct regular security penetration testing to highlight vulnerabilities, and are in the process of developing an 'Identity Vault' to maintain secure document storage for all candidates, demonstrating our dedication to safeguarding user data against evolving threats.

Even with a multitude of thirdparty integrations, we adhere to strict security relating to data exchange, aimed at minimising data breach risks, and maintaining our Government accreditation obligations.

As leaders in compliance management, we’re committed to keeping data safe and helping you minimise cybersecurity incidence with our approach.

This also includes cybersecurity training, which WorkPro subscribing customers can access as part of their eLearning subscription.

We invite you to explore our eLearning library, review our security and data handling policies, access online resources, and welcome you to contact us to learn more or to answer any questions.