The hybrid model has become the new norm for many organizations. Employees are using corporate resources both in the office and remotely, using a variety of devices, networks and cloud applications. While this approach increases flexibility and productivity, it also significantly complicates data protection. The boundaries of corporate infrastructure are blurring, and traditional security methods are no longer sufficient. That’s why data protection in a hybrid model requires a completely new approach.
Key findings
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Hybrid model increases number of data access points
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Company data today is processed outside the organization’s traditional network
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Key threats come from user error, not just external attacks
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Effective data protection should not block the work of employees
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User behavior is increasingly important in security strategy
Table of contents
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Why the hybrid model is changing the approach to data protection
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The most common threats to data in hybrid operation
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Why classic security measures are not enough
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How to effectively protect data without restricting users
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What research says about data protection in the hybrid model
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Frequently asked questions
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Summary
Why the hybrid model is changing the approach to data protection
In the traditional working model, data was mainly inside the corporate network. Today, they are transferred between the cloud, private devices and home networks. This means that organizations are losing full control over where data goes and how it is processed. Protection based solely on network security no longer serves its purpose.
The hybrid model forces a focus not on where the data is stored, but on the data itself and how it is used.
The most common threats to data in hybrid operation
One of the biggest risks in hybrid work is the uninformed actions of users. Uploading files to private clouds, using unsecured networks or sharing data with unauthorized people are situations that happen every day. Added to this are the dangers of phishing, malware and loss of mobile devices.
Many incidents are not due to malice, but to a lack of visibility and control over the flow of information.
Why classic security measures are not enough
Traditional security systems focus mainly on protecting networks and devices. However, in a hybrid model, data leaves the corporate infrastructure and goes to cloud applications, collaboration tools and private user environments. Under such conditions, firewalls or classic antivirus systems cannot effectively protect information.
There is a growing need for solutions that analyze the context of a user’s actions, not just the network traffic itself.
How to effectively protect data without restricting users
Modern data protection in a hybrid model should be based on analyzing user behavior and controlling how information is used. Instead of blocking access to resources, security systems should identify risky activities and respond only when necessary.
This approach protects sensitive data without compromising the user experience. Solutions offered by Forcepoint focus precisely on protecting data by understanding user behavior and the context of their actions, which is crucial in hybrid environments.
What research says about data protection in the hybrid model
Studies show that the majority of data leakage incidents in hybrid work originate from internal operations. Experts stress that effective data protection requires a combination of technology and analysis of human behavior. Organizations that implement solutions that take into account the context of users’ work significantly reduce the number of security incidents.
Frequently asked questions
Does hybrid work increase the risk of data leakage?
Yes, if the organization does not adapt its security strategy to the new work model.
Does data protection have to limit employees’ freedom?
No, the modern approach allows you to protect your data without blocking your daily work.
What should be the focus of data protection in a hybrid model?
On data, users and the context of their actions, not just the network.
Summary
The hybrid model has permanently changed the way organizations operate and approach information security. Data is no longer locked in a single location, and protecting it requires flexible and intelligent solutions. An effective security strategy should combine data protection with user behavior analysis, ensuring security without sacrificing productivity.
