Metomic [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6], a data security solution [1], recently conducted a study on Google Drive files and found that a significant amount of sensitive data is stored without adequate protection. This poses a risk of data breaches and cyberattacks [6].
Description
Out of approximately 6.5 million files analyzed, 40 percent contained sensitive information. Additionally, 34.2 percent of the files were shared with external contacts outside the company’s domain [2], and 0.5 percent were publicly accessible [4]. Among the flagged files, 18,000 were categorized as “Critical Level” due to highly sensitive data or insecure file permissions [2] [3] [4] [6]. This research highlights the importance of organizations gaining comprehensive visibility into SaaS ecosystems, particularly Google Workspace apps [1] [2] [3], to address the increasing threat of data breaches.
Rich Vibert [2] [3], the CEO of Metomic [1], emphasizes the challenge faced by security teams and business leaders in protecting sensitive data while promoting collaboration and productivity [2] [3]. To secure their data [6], businesses should take proactive measures such as implementing proper data classification and access controls [6], conducting regular security audits [6], and providing employee training on data protection best practices [6]. It is also crucial for businesses to be aware of what data is stored in Google Drives and who has access to it in order to prevent data breaches [4] [5].
Conclusion
The average cost of a data breach has risen by 15% over the past three years [1], reaching $4.45 million in 2023 [1]. Therefore, having full visibility into the data stored in SaaS ecosystems [1], including Google Workspace apps [1] [2] [3], is essential. Businesses must prioritize data security by implementing robust measures and staying vigilant against potential threats. Metomic offers IT and security teams the ability to control data accessibility [1], providing a valuable solution in the fight against data breaches.
References
[1] https://cioinfluence.com/security/google-drive-files-contain-sensitive-information-in-40-percent-of-cases-metomic-finds/
[2] https://ciso2ciso.com/new-report-over-40-of-google-drive-files-contain-sensitive-info-source-www-infosecurity-magazine-com/
[3] https://www.infosecurity-magazine.com/news/google-drive-files-contain/
[4] https://betanews.com/2023/12/07/sensitive-data-on-google-drives-puts-companies-at-risk/
[5] https://www.morningstar.com/news/business-wire/20231206024354/metomic-finds-40-of-google-drive-files-contain-sensitive-information-putting-organizations-at-risk-of-a-data-breach
[6] https://www.techradar.com/pro/security/huge-amounts-of-google-drive-files-containing-sensitive-data-are-lacking-proper-protection
