ALMA is a data system used in several companies and communities important for our nation’s security of supply. Good data security is a matter of course in case of critically important data systems that must always be up and running.
Data security usually refers to the safe storage and transfer of data and documents of people, companies and communities. Cybersecurity is part of data security, and it covers the security of all types of information technology-related activities. For companies and people, both are important.
Vitec ALMA customers include several operators important in terms of security of supply. Naturally, data security is vital for all companies and communities, but it is even more important for companies critical to the functioning of society. Cyber threats are constantly evolving – because of this, we as software designers must always be vigilant.Teemu Urpilainen, Vitec ALMA’s ICT and data security expert
Urpilainen, who constantly educates himself, is thoroughly familiar with matters related to data security and cybersecurity. New threats emerge in the world all the time, but Vitec ALMA responds to them quickly, usually at the forefront.
According to Urpilainen, individuals and companies alike underestimate the importance of their anonymity and data security much too often. “Why should someone be interested in what we do here...” This is far from truth. There are many, especially from the global perspective.
“Data security must be taken care of at work, at home, at school, and in free time. In fields critical to security of supply, safety issues are even more important. Databases are constantly being breached and stolen. Fortunately, data breaches comparable to that of Vastaamo are rare – but unfortunately, for many people, only such disasters serve as wake-up calls. The losses are often both mental and financial,” Urpilainen points out.
In Vitec ALMA’s data security thinking, the safety and integrity of the customers’ data come first. We always think twice about the safest possible way for storing and moving data. We don’t wish for things to happen, but take action to make sure.
“Typical data security problems include, for example, weak passwords and phishing links received by employees. Customer data – whether electronic or on paper – may never become visible to everyone. Problems in the online world can quickly cross over to the real world, and vice versa. At Vitec ALMA and the entire Vitec Group, data security and cybersecurity-related trainings are arranged regularly. These are used to boost security-conscious behaviour and to provide information on current threats that need to be prepared for,” Urpilainen explains.
In the modern world, a company cannot survive without secure data and communications. Many know how to build a plant building, but information regarding the plant’s production line and the operation of its equipment should be kept confidential by the company. Production-related intangible assets are often just as important, if not more important, than the company’s tangible assets.
“In the SaaS world, it is possible to take care of the security of the customer’s entire software package with regular server software updates. The ALMA SaaS version in use always has all the latest security updates. These provide immediate protection to all systems of SaaS customers. Therefore, it is safe to say that fundamental data security thinking is at the very heart of Vitec ALMA’s DNA,” Urpilainen states.