5 Most Common Causes of Data Loss by Human Error

Data loss incidents caused by human error are much more frequent (and expensive). A minor "error" can become a catastrophe if the data cannot be recovered.

This article will be explaining the top 5 causes of data loss by human error and how to best avoid it.

1) Accidental file deletion

When a user removes a significant file or folder, it happens frequently and might result in data loss. There are various potential reasons why this might occur. Unaware of their mistake, an employee may unintentionally move a crucial file to the trash. Alternately, they might delete it on purpose only to realize later that they needed it.

Moving files and folders around the server by users often results in accidental destruction of those items. Sometimes an employee makes a mistake right away, which makes recovery a little bit simpler. However, other instances it could take the employee days or even weeks to realize the data are gone. To make matters worse, in addition to not knowing when the file was created, they might not even recall its name, which makes it harder for IT administrators to locate.

2) Mismanaged migrations

Any time substantial volumes of data are transported, there is a chance that files will get lost or inadvertently erased. They are typically overwritten. Worst-case scenarios involve the replacement of entire folders and directories. Older data unintentionally replaces newer versions of files. Bad data replaces good data.

Why does this occur?

It usually comes down to a straightforward error made by the individual performing the migration. The motives are honorable: For instance, the transfer can be necessary to consolidate or restructure data storage. Or perhaps a new piece of software is being introduced that needs data to be moved first. But in each situation, if the user isn't attentive, it could result in a failed transfer that wipes out significant amounts of data.

3) Social engineering

Hackers plan to access your systems through human error.

The practice of social engineering involves misleading consumers in order to obtain access to other security systems or to distribute malware that paves the way for future cyberattacks.

Emails are the normal first step in social engineering. Users are intended to be duped into believing that these emails are legitimate while in fact they include harmful attachments or links to malicious websites.

When deception is used, spam emails can be seen as a type of social engineering. Employees might get a message that is labelled as a bill, invoice, or receipt, for instance. However, consumers' computers become infected with malware when they unintentionally click these links or open the file attachments.

Attacks against social engineering that are more advanced frequently include numerous deception levels. For instance, a message may appear to be from a coworker asking you to access a file shared on Google Drive or reset your password. The message may even include the teammate's name. The user is directed to a secondary page that also appears legitimate after clicking the link. The page is actually merely the next stage of the fraud, though. Users enter their credentials without realizing it, and the attackers receive them right away.

According to some estimates, social engineering is used in 98% of cyberattacks. These assaults have the potential to permanently lose data if ransomware or other forms of malware are utilized to spread them.

4) Negative Integrations

Integrating third-party software requires caution, especially if data movement of any type is involved. Data deletion is quite likely if the integration is improperly designed or if there are compatibility problems.

Is it a human error? Most of the time, sure. It is the user's duty to confirm that the integration is workable before continuing. For instance, while adding new software, the user must ensure that it is both compatible with existing systems and developed by credible sources. Prior to a full rollout, testing environments should be used to test integrations and find issues.

Sometimes, human mistake isn't the real problem. For instance, flaws in software that is otherwise well-developed could result in a botched integration and data loss. But still, proper testing should be used to reduce this risk.

5. Other factors

Human error is thought to be the root cause of 70% of data center mishaps. Beyond someone accidentally deleting files, that's a very distinct data loss scenario.

Everything from network configuration errors to security flaws are to blame for these disasters. They are errors that occur in the management of your IT systems, whether as a result of ignorance . The fact that these things do happen emphasizes how crucial data backup is.

How can you prevent data loss from human factors?

The most crucial step in avoiding irreparable data loss due to human mistake is to regularly backup your data. Stronger file access controls and frequent employee training can both help to lower the likelihood of human error. Check out these Interware services and help reduce the risk of these events occuring: