Database Security

The loss of a database could have disastrous consequences for an organisation or business. In 1989 the American Airlines computer system responsible for handling ticket reservations was 'down' for twelve hours. Travel agents throughout the country were unable to book tickets for clients and travellers who had arranged to collect tickets at the airport were stranded.

Loss of a customer database or accounts data could put a company in a situation where it would be unable to continue trading.

Much of the data held by firms is commercially valuable. Its disclosure to a rival organisation could cost the firm business or provide the rival with a commercial advantage. An example of this occurred in 1993 when British Airways obtained information stored on Virgin Atlantic's computer system relating customer travel details. BA then approached the people concerned offering a better deal on the flight thus costing Virgin Atlantic custom.

The concept of data security therefore covers protection of data from physical loss or damage and also protection from unauthorised access. Note that in every case where data is lost or corrupted, correct backup procedures are an essential if the system is to be recovered.

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