Both Microsoft and Google support encryption for their business accounts. If you’ve moved your business to Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace, you likely did so for the peace of mind that comes with “enterprise-grade security.” You’ve seen the marketing: your data is protected. But here is the catch that many business owners miss:
The high-level encryption you need to protect sensitive client data is almost never turned on by default.
In the world of cloud security, there is a big difference between “the connection is secure” and “the file is locked.” While Google and Microsoft keep their servers safe, they leave the most important security “switches” in your hands. If you haven’t flipped them, your sensitive emails and files are essentially sitting in a folder that’s closed, but not actually locked.
Why “Standard” Security Isn’t Enough
Think of standard encryption like a delivery truck. It’s great at making sure no one steals your package while it’s driving down the road. But once that package sits on a porch, anyone can open it.
Advanced encryption—the kind that isn’t enabled automatically—is like putting a combination lock directly on the box. Only the person with the code can see what’s inside, no matter where the box ends up.
Why “Doing It Yourself” is Risky
Enabling these features isn’t as simple as checking a box. If configured incorrectly, you can accidentally lock yourself out of your own files or make it so difficult for your team to work that they start using personal, unsecure email accounts just to get things done.
How Creekside Systems Helps You Secure Your Data
At Creekside Systems, we specialize in bridging the gap between “out of the box” settings and true data safety. We don’t just turn on encryption; we make it work for your specific business by educating you and your users on how to best use the features including:
- Custom “Auto-Locking”: We can set up your system to recognize sensitive data (like social security numbers) and encrypt it automatically so your team doesn’t have to remember to do it.
- Seamless Access: We make sure your customers can actually open the secure files you send them without needing a degree in computer science.
- Total Peace of Mind: We audit your current setup to ensure you aren’t paying for high-end security features that are currently sitting idle.
Don’t leave your most valuable asset—your customer’s trust—to default settings. Contact Creekside Systems today for a security audit, and let’s make sure your “private” data stays exactly that: private.
Is your team currently handling sensitive data over email, or are you looking to shore up your compliance for the coming year?