ORLANDO, Fla., Oct. 30 -- In a major step forward to simplifying the security and management of private data stored on any computing device, Seagate Technology (NYSE:STX) is introducing a powerful new security platform that delivers a simple, cost- effective way to deploy the highest levels of security for computing systems, computer electronics and mobile devices by protecting data where it lives -- on the hard disc drive.
The platform, Seagate DriveTrust Technology, combines strong, fully automated hardware-based security with a programming foundation that makes it easy to add security-based software applications for organization-wide encryption key management, multi-factor user authentication and other capabilities that help lock down digital information at rest. DriveTrust Technology works by encasing the security operations in the hard drive, making the technology as easy and cost-effective to deploy as the drive itself.
Seagate's security breakthrough comes as more high-value information such as financial data, digital multi-media content and personal data is stored on hard drives. Stolen data can cost organizations and consumers dearly. Plundered trade secrets and intellectual property can mean millions of dollars in lost business. Pilfered personal information such as address books, account information and social security numbers threaten consumers with the high cost of identity theft. Family photos, video and music downloads, often numbering in the hundreds if not thousands, stored on computers, carry their own inestimable value. The proliferation of this precious data on mobile devices increases the potential risks.
For many organizations, compliance with data security and privacy legislation such as Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) has become a priority, making the security of critical digital content -- including the secure disposal of electronic files to end the data lifecycle -- a fundamental requirement. At the same time, content providers need stronger forms of security to protect their digital assets and enable new business models.
"Securing data on the hard drive is an innovative, yet commonsense approach that will simplify the deployment and the adoption of security for data at rest," said Charles Kolodgy, research director of security products for analyst group IDC. "As storage and security converge, solutions like Seagate's DriveTrust Technology are leading the way by providing organizations with the strong, easy-to-use security they need to protect their data assets."
