Common Data Security Terms

Here are a number of common terms used in discussions about data security:

Antivirus — Software programs designed to detect and remove computer viruses. A good anti-virus application includes a regular update service allowing it to keep up with the latest viruses used by hackers.

Firewall — A system designed to prevent access to a private computer network. A firewall can be created either by a piece of hardware or software. Many firewalls combine both types.

Encryption — This is the process by which information is converted or scrambled into an unrecognizable form. The encrypted information is only available to people with the right password or key.

NPPI or NPI — These are acronyms used to refer to “nonpublic personal information.” The federal government defines NPI as any personally identifiable financial information that a financial institution collects about an individual in connection with providing a financial product or service, unless that information is otherwise publicly available.

PCI or PCI Security Standards — This refers to “Payment Card Industry Security Standards,” which is a set of global standards and practices for protecting credit card transactions.

Phishing — This fraud technique uses a legitimate-looking email in an attempt to gather personal and financial information you. Typically, the messages appear to come from well-known and trustworthy companies, government agencies or other organizations.

Spear Phishing — This fraud technique uses an email that appears to be from an individual or business known to you. The email “sender” could appear to be a friend, relative or your bank.

Michael Lewis is Managing Editor of member publications for the National Notary Association.

Related Articles:

Data Security For Notaries On The Go

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Test Yourself: How Secure Are Your Data Handling Practices? 

Additional Resources:

Notary Privacy Guard

Locking Storage