Extract from Exterro’s article “Why Automated Data Mapping Is Essential to Prevent Data Risks”
Organizations today collect and handle more data than ever before, but with the rapid growth of data comes significant challenges. Many businesses lack full visibility and control over their data, which leaves them exposed to compliance risks, security threats, and inefficiencies. In an era of strict privacy regulations and evolving cybersecurity challenges, having a clear understanding of your data is no longer optional—it’s essential. This is where automated data mapping comes in, providing organizations with the tools they need to stay competitive and compliant.
The Hidden Risks in Unseen Data
Data is one of the most valuable assets a business can have, but it’s also one of the riskiest. Without proper oversight, businesses often do not know where data is stored, how long it has been retained, who has access to it, or how it is being used. This lack of visibility creates vulnerabilities that can snowball into costly compliance failures, security breaches, and reputational damage.
The stakes are higher than ever. Privacy regulations like GDPR, CCPA, and others demand that organizations maintain accountability for their data management practices. Failure to do so can result in hefty fines, legal actions, and loss of trust among customers and stakeholders. To make matters worse, many companies still rely on outdated manual processes like spreadsheets, emails, and fragmented systems to track and manage their data. These methods are prone to errors, inefficiencies, and oversight that only increase the likelihood of compliance failures.
