In an era of increasing cyber threats and stringent regulatory requirements, data security and compliance are critical considerations for travel and tourism businesses.
The industry handles vast amounts of sensitive customer information, including personal details, payment data, and travel itineraries, making it a prime target for cyberattacks.
Meanwhile, cloud computing is a double-edged sword when it comes to cybersecurity. Cloud can offer more robust security, but managing cybersecurity within a cloud environment can also be a challenge.
Data security in travel and tourism
The travel and tourism industry is highly exposed to attacks due to the large amounts of personal data it handles, including names, addresses, passport details, and payment information. According to GlobalData forecasts, spending on cybersecurity in the travel and leisure sector will hit $4.3bn in 2027, up from $2.3bn in 2022.
Cloud may be an attractive proposition for the industry; however, the complexity of managing cybersecurity in a cloud environment is significant. Traditional perimeter-based security measures are inadequate, as cloud environments lack a defined perimeter. This interconnectedness can lead to vulnerabilities such as insecure APIs and account hijacking. Human error remains a leading cause of cybersecurity vulnerabilities.
Misconfigurations of user access controls and insufficient training can expose sensitive data to threats. Employees may lack the necessary skills to handle data securely, increasing the likelihood of breaches. With regulations like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA), travel companies must ensure that customer data is managed securely. Non-compliance can result in substantial fines and legal repercussions, making effective cybersecurity not just a technical necessity but also a legal imperative.
US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?
Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.
By GlobalDataThe benefits of cloud
However, cloud computing also offers robust security measures and compliance certifications that help businesses safeguard sensitive data and ensure regulatory compliance. Cloud providers invest heavily in security technologies, including encryption, access controls, threat detection, and security monitoring. For example, cloud providers implement strong encryption protocols to encrypt data both in transit and at rest, ensuring that sensitive information remains protected from unauthorised access. Additionally, access controls and identity management systems enable businesses to enforce granular permissions and authentication mechanisms, ensuring that only authorised users can access sensitive data.
Furthermore, cloud providers undergo rigorous audits and certifications to demonstrate compliance with industry standards and regulations, such as GDPR, CCPA, and the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS). These certifications assure businesses that their cloud provider adheres to best practices for data protection, privacy, and regulatory compliance.
Businesses must also implement their own security policies, procedures, and controls
In addition to the security measures implemented by cloud providers, businesses must also implement their own security policies, procedures, and controls to mitigate risks and protect data. This includes conducting regular security assessments, implementing robust authentication mechanisms, and educating employees about security best practices.
Moreover, businesses must ensure that they have clear agreements and contracts in place with their cloud providers, outlining responsibilities for data security, compliance, and incident response. These agreements should address key considerations, including data ownership, data access, breach notification procedures, and liability allocation.
Overall, cloud computing enables travel and tourism businesses to enhance data security, mitigate risks, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, thereby protecting sensitive customer information and preserving trust and confidence in the industry.
