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I L T A N E T . O R G
THE NECESSITY OF DATA DISPOSAL
The early stages of the data lifecycle—collection, analysis, and use—often receive
significant attention and investment from organizations. However, retaining data beyond
its purpose introduces substantial risks, turning an asset into a liability. Over-retaining
unnecessary data can expose organizations to the following threats:
DATA BREACHES
The larger an organization's data
holdings are, the greater its attack
surface for potential breaches.
Retaining unnecessary or
outdated data increases exposure
risks for sensitive information
within an organization's data
holdings.
LEGAL VIOLATIONS
Many privacy and cybersecurity
laws, including those exampled
below, explicitly require data
disposition once it has outlived
its purpose. Organizations must
demonstrate that they only retain
data if it is legally necessary or
operationally justifiable. Failure
to comply can lead to regulatory
fines and penalties.
REPUTATIONAL DAMAGE
Today's consumers expect
companies to respect their
privacy, including the timely
disposition of their personal data.
When organizations fail to meet
this expectation, they risk eroding
customer trust. This reputational
harm can lead to customer churn,
lost business opportunities, and
long-term brand damage.
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