In data protection, what does 'due diligence' mean?

In the context of data protection, 'due diligence' refers specifically to the thorough assessment of risks associated with data security. This involves evaluating potential vulnerabilities, threats, and the possible impacts on the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data. The aim is to identify what can go wrong and to take appropriate steps to mitigate those risks.

Due diligence is a proactive process; it allows organizations to understand their risk landscape and implement necessary measures to protect sensitive information. This could include evaluating existing controls, identifying gaps in security, and ensuring that appropriate safeguards are in place to prevent data breaches or other incidents.

By focusing on comprehensive risk assessment, organizations can make informed decisions about where to allocate resources and how to develop policies, which is critical in maintaining data protection and compliance with regulations.