Protect sensitive data with online email encryption

On March 1, 2010, the state of Massachusetts enacted a law which protects its citizens from the unauthorized use or theft of personal or financial information.

Massachusetts law 201 CMR 17.00 requires the “encryption of all transmitted records and files containing personal information that will travel across public networks, and encryption of all data containing personal information to be transmitted wirelessly.” The law affects “every person that owns or licenses personal information about a resident of the Commonwealth.” Not only must Massachusetts-based businesses comply, but ALL businesses who receive, store, maintain, process or have access to information on Massachusetts residents are also obligated to ensure the security of their data.

The law requires that all electronic data, including email messages, which contain a person’s name, social security number, driver’s license number or state-issued ID card number, financial account number, or credit or debit card number, must immediately be secured and that no transmission of data can leave a business’ premises without first being encrypted. 

Penalties for non-compliance with this law include up to a $5,000 fine per violation and up to $50,000 for each instance of improper disposal of personal data. 

Does your company maintain personal information on residents of Massachusetts?  Is the data encrypted?  123Together.com’s online email encryption service is a quick and cost-effective way to ensure that your business and your data are fully protected.