The Privacy Amendment (Enhancing Privacy Protection) Act  2012 has now been in operation for nearly four months since its inception in March of this year.

The reforms introduced 13 core privacy principles, and the effective understanding and implementation of these is essential for any companies that holds personal information and confidential data about individuals. 

Each of the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs) refer to a specific element of information security, including the storage and use of individuals' personal data. The principles have been derived during a 10 year process that began in 2004.

The changes to the laws also aim to integrate privacy within all stages of company operations, including incorporating privacy best practice into business functions as well as technology design.

Implementing and handling sensitive data should be at the forefront when designing IT systems for corporate use, and creating policies that effectively manage and deal with data breaches and other measures for security protection.

You can enhance your understanding of privacy law and other important components of IT security by undertaking information security training courses.

What are the benefits of security training?

Taking a confident managerial approach to potential security threats is an essential part in preventing your company from possible attacks. Building on knowledge and expertise gained in the real-life application of management roles can be aided with training.

Becoming CISM certified is an excellent way to improve your knowledge base and lead your department with an increased awareness of the planning, strategising and measuring necessary to implement and fulfil your company's security policies. 

Identifying where possible risks could arise in your business operations and the best practice in implementing these, along with reporting on the changes and actions taken, are also topics the course covers.

Incorporating risk planning into trading procedures as well as complying with due diligence are both management requirements that should be continually assessed and enforced as part of wider security measures too.