Data Hoarding Risks: Financial & Security Dangers Exposed
▼ Summary
– End-of-life data management is critical but often overlooked, with nearly half of enterprises failing to destroy unneeded data.
– A new survey highlights the dangers of poor data sanitization, comparable to risks posed by data breaches.
– Blancco’s 2025 report shows companies are addressing these risks due to data security, compliance, and sustainability pressures.
– 86% of enterprises experienced a data breach in the last three years, while 73% faced data leaks from process failures or human errors.
– The survey involved 2,000 global leaders in cybersecurity, IT, and sustainability from large enterprises.
Businesses worldwide are grappling with the hidden dangers of data hoarding, a practice that exposes organizations to significant financial and security risks despite receiving less attention than high-profile breaches. New research highlights how failing to properly dispose of unnecessary data creates vulnerabilities that cybercriminals actively exploit.
A recent global survey of 2,000 executives specializing in cybersecurity, IT, and sustainability reveals alarming trends. Nearly half of enterprises admit to retaining data they no longer need, leaving sensitive information exposed to potential leaks or breaches. The consequences are already evident—86% of organizations reported experiencing a data breach within the past three years, while 73% faced leaks often tied to procedural gaps or employee mistakes.
The findings come from a comprehensive report analyzing data sanitization practices across industries. Growing regulatory demands, heightened security concerns (particularly with AI advancements), and sustainability goals are forcing companies to reevaluate their data retention policies. Organizations now recognize that proper data destruction isn’t just about compliance—it’s a critical component of risk management.
Without systematic processes for identifying and securely removing obsolete data, businesses remain vulnerable. Storing unnecessary information not only increases breach risks but also inflates storage costs and compliance efforts. As digital footprints expand, proactive data lifecycle management becomes essential for mitigating threats and maintaining operational efficiency.
The message is clear: Ignoring end-of-life data management carries consequences comparable to high-visibility cyber incidents. Companies must prioritize secure deletion protocols alongside breach prevention to fully protect their assets and reputation.
(Source: Computer World)
