Audit, monitor, research, patch! Audit - use vulnerability scanners + pen testing. Leave no stone unturned. Monitor - Set up robust network based scans, and ideally anomaly detection. This lets you identify any redundant data /calls, and see if you have been pwned. Research - Get in contact with any related teams to verify validity of worries/make optimizations, make adjustments, and create a remediation plan in case of an incident. Patch - Make the changes. Booyah!

To uncover potential vulnerabilities in your data security processes, implement a combination of active and passive vulnerability scanning. Active scanning involves simulating attacks on your systems to identify weaknesses, such as SQL injection or cross-site scripting vulnerabilities. Tools like OpenVAS or Acunetix can automate this process, providing comprehensive reports on identified risks. In addition, utilize passive detection methods, which analyze real traffic for signs of vulnerabilities without direct interaction. Regular audits and employing a mix of automated tools and manual assessments will ensure a thorough evaluation of your security posture, helping you address vulnerabilities proactively.

When I streamline data security, I focus on spotting what might still be exposed. I start by testing what we assume is secure—there’s always something we miss. Mapping how data moves across the system often reveals weak spots. I run mock incidents to see how we’d respond and where things might break down. Involving different teams early helps, since everyone touches data. I also watch for patterns in logs that don’t look right, not just known threats. Streamlining works only if we’re not leaving gaps behind.