How not to redact
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Redacting information is a crucial step in keeping sensitive data secure. It involves removing or obscuring sensitive information from documents, images, or any other type of content. However, redaction mistakes can lead to data breaches, which can have serious consequences. Here are some tips on how not to redact information:
Don't rely on software alone: Automated redaction tools can make mistakes, and the results are often dependent on the quality of the input image. To ensure that all sensitive information has been properly obscured, it's important to review the redacted document manually.
Don't forget about metadata: Metadata is data that describes other data, such as the author of a document, the date it was created, and more. Some metadata can contain sensitive information, so it's important to make sure that this information is also removed or obscured.
Don't over-redact: Over-redacting information can make it difficult for authorized users to understand the content of the document. Redact only the information that is truly sensitive, and keep in mind that over-redaction can also reveal the fact that sensitive information is present.
Don't under-redact: On the other hand, under-redacting information can expose sensitive information to unauthorized individuals. Be thorough when redacting, and double-check your work to ensure that no sensitive information is left exposed.
Don't forget about historical versions: When working with documents, it's important to redact all versions of the document, including historical versions that may still be accessible.
Don't ignore the context: The context of the information can also impact its sensitivity. For example, information that may be public in one context may be sensitive in another. Take the time to understand the context of the information before deciding what needs to be redacted.
Redacting information is a crucial step in protecting sensitive data, but it's important to do it correctly. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can help keep your sensitive information secure and ensure that your redaction efforts are effective.