Following a security investigation by the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC), IT security and data protection firm Sophos is warning of the dangers of uncontrolled peer-to-peer (P2P) file-sharing in the workplace, which can put sensitive corporate and personal information at risk.
 

"If not configured properly, Kazaa, Limewire and other P2P file-sharing networks can scoop up files on your computer that you would probably prefer the whole world didn't have access to," explained Graham Cluley, senior technology consultant at Sophos. "There are now cybercriminal gangs who scavenge the file-sharing networks, hunting for sensitive work documents such as financial records, driving licences and social security numbers."

The FTC's warning acts as a stern reminder to companies worldwide towards the dangers posed by P2P file-sharing in the work environment, and the need to control the movement of sensitive data. A survey conducted by Sophos revealed that 86.5% of organisations would like the ability to block P2P file-sharing applications, with 79% indicating that blocking is essential. These statistics point towards the concerns felt by most businesses with regard to protecting their data.

"Some firms may choose to turn a blind eye to their workers using peer-to-peer file-sharing applications to download pirated music and movies, but they must wake up to the risks of exposing sensitive data. Many of these P2P apps will scour your entire hard drive for files to share automatically, and could pick up data that should never be released onto the net," Cluley continued. "By using application control and data loss protection, companies can both block their users from running the file-sharing apps and prevent them from moving sensitive data to an uncontrolled home PC."

If you are worried about the possibility of your staff using your corporate network or company equipment to access file-sharing networks, please contact us today.