Businesses must safeguard their digital files from prying eyes, whether it’s confidential information about staff and customers, deals or documents. Even if employees are well-trained and reliable, it only takes one tiny mistake to trigger an embarrassing data breach that could ruin a company’s reputation. There are four ways to limit the use of electronic files and avoid an incident:
The Administrative Office of the Courts is seeking input on four options to address security and privacy issues in providing remote electronic access to public case file records. The first option would preserve the presumption that all court records being accessible at the courthouse, as well electronically, however it would limit access to remote records only to those who have an appropriate need, like a parties, counsels important court personnel and judges.
The second option permits an individual to access and download all the information in the case file, but only when they have an official need. This includes those who are convicted of a crime, and requires the approval of a judge for the request for release of the information.
The third option allows the public to have limited access to certain documents which typically are found in criminal case files. These include plea agreements, as well as not executed arrest warrants. The public is also restricted in access to certain information like Social Security Numbers and financial information. It depends on prosecutors and their attorneys to protect their interests in individual cases by filing motions to seal certain information or exclude it from electronic access.