If the role of public cloud companies is to gather as much personal information on individuals as they can and make it easy for that information to be shared, packaged, even sold to 3rd parties, it seems there is also a role for the protection of that data. Enter the Managed Service Provider.
Next week at the MSPWorld 2018 Conference & Expo, there will be a cyber security symposium where panelists and the audience will discuss the often delicate balance between using cloud computing to make our lives easier and the real dangers of losing control of personal and corporate information. Here are some of the reasons why I believe MSPs are uniquely positioned to become advocates for data privacy and security.
Trust
MSPs are already trusted by their customers. Earning and keeping the trust of a customer is at least half the battle in managed services. Once earned, MSPs can use that trust to educate and convince customers to take meaningful steps to protect their individual and corporate data.
Regulation
Real regulation is finally here and it is to be taken serious. As GDPR fast approaches in Europe in May), MSPs managing data belonging to European citizens could face significant fines if they are not careful. GDPR is authorizing fines of up to 20 million Euros or 4% of annual revenues (whichever is greater).
Long Term Strategy
Becoming protectors of data privacy and security is not only a good business strategy, it is the right thing to do. MSPs who have struggled with finding their place in the world or wondered whether there was a long term strategy as a MSP, data privacy and security protection is a very good starting point.
Don't get me wrong. There is a lot of work within the general field of data privacy and security. MSPs have many ways to differentiate themselves while staying within this general framework. MSPs not currently acknowledging these threats or still trying to make a living as break/fix providers need to realize this and start generating capabilities within data protection. It is, in my opinion, the future of the managed services profession.
