In doing so, he accidentally discovered that small differences in his calculations could cause substantial changes to his simulations.
Or to put it another way, that 'a butterfly flapping its wings in Hong Kong, can change tornado patterns in Texas.'
Unsurprisingly Lorenz's findings became known as the 'Butterfly Effect' and brought the Chaos theory (as it is known in mathematical terms) to a wider audience.
So far, so interesting but how does it relate to modern business security and the problem of corporate identity theft?
The reason is because - despite being largely aware that small changes can have large-scale repercussions - many of us forget to apply this logic to our business data.
A mobile phone left on a train, a confidential report discarded in a hotel conference room or even a corporate credit card left in a coffee shop. Unwittingly we can set off our own chain of events, causing a potentially damaging 'Butterfly Effect' every day.
Tyron Hill, spokesperson for National Identity Fraud Prevention Week explains: "Corporate security breaches and identity fraud have emerged as the leading crimes of the 21st century. Unfortunately the constant, global nature of modern business life makes it easier for criminals to compromise data security if it is not well guarded."
Business travel is a particular example. The average business executive takes four identifiable technological devices with them on a trip - a mobile phone, laptop, USB stick and a hand held device such as a Blackberry or PDA. Just these four items will hold data and files worth hundreds, if not thousands, of pounds more than the device itself. If mislaid, lost or stolen their contents can immediately expose both owner and employer to significant risk.
Added to this, it is also common to use a variety of other computers when out of the office or on business-related travel. These include hotel business centres, internet cafes and even at client or competitor premises for those times when it's necessary to send a few emails or plug in a USB stick to tweak a file.
Using a third party computer although convenient can be highly insecure. Anyone with intent can easily determine the web pages you have been on or pull up recent documents.
And yet how can modern business executives protect company data while still responding to the demands of the commercial world? Small preventative measures can avoid significant problems. Follow these top tips to keep your data secure wherever you are:
Easy tips to keep your data secure:
Has this post prompted you to re-evaluate your data security when out of the office? Do you agree that small safeguards can guard against bigger problems? Have you experienced a butterfly effect you would like to share?
Let us know - we're always keen to read your thoughts, tips, comments and feedback.
If you're interested in more hints and tips on ways to protect your business, educate your employees and also protect your own identity, register here to access free downloadable leaflets, guides, checklists and posters that will help safeguard you from identity fraud.
Business travel is a particular example. The average business executive takes four identifiable technological devices with them on a trip - a mobile phone, laptop, USB stick and a hand held device such as a Blackberry or PDA. Just these four items will hold data and files worth hundreds, if not thousands, of pounds more than the device itself. If mislaid, lost or stolen their contents can immediately expose both owner and employer to significant risk.
Added to this, it is also common to use a variety of other computers when out of the office or on business-related travel. These include hotel business centres, internet cafes and even at client or competitor premises for those times when it's necessary to send a few emails or plug in a USB stick to tweak a file.
Using a third party computer although convenient can be highly insecure. Anyone with intent can easily determine the web pages you have been on or pull up recent documents.
And yet how can modern business executives protect company data while still responding to the demands of the commercial world? Small preventative measures can avoid significant problems. Follow these top tips to keep your data secure wherever you are:
Easy tips to keep your data secure:
- Do not flaunt private information. A surprising number of company laptops are stickered with employee's names. Similarly, keep company pass cards and/or delegate identification from being easily visible.
- Ensure that all devices - mobile phones, Blackberrys and laptops - are password protected. Where possible ensure that you have a record of the device security codes, IMEI numbers etc.
- Take responsibility for even the smallest items. Ensure that company documents are never left in hotels, client offices or on transport. Remove all paper items and shred if no longer required.
- Exchange your USB stick for a Mobiu. This dongle-like device acts as a super secure key to an online vault that houses all of your company's work. It even contains its own software suites including an Office compatible word and spreadsheet program and an onboard Firefox browser. This means that your data will always remain independent to the third party computer you happen to be working on.
Has this post prompted you to re-evaluate your data security when out of the office? Do you agree that small safeguards can guard against bigger problems? Have you experienced a butterfly effect you would like to share?
Let us know - we're always keen to read your thoughts, tips, comments and feedback.
If you're interested in more hints and tips on ways to protect your business, educate your employees and also protect your own identity, register here to access free downloadable leaflets, guides, checklists and posters that will help safeguard you from identity fraud.
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