LOSING CONTROL OF YOURSELF (First published April 2023)
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LOSING CONTROL OF YOURSELF.
Recently, I encountered a situation where an individual had completely lost control of his ‘e-life’—specifically, his business website domain, files, and emails. This gentleman was unaware of his website designer’s whereabouts, who had access to the backend of his domain, or controlled his email services. He didn’t even have information about the hosting provider being used.
What surprised me the most was that he had no records of website renewals, invoices, or any basic information related to his online presence. At one point, it seemed like he believed a website and domain were eternal, existing indefinitely once launched. I can assure you that is never the case.
This particular scenario was especially peculiar because the website and email services were still operational, yet the lack of control and ownership posed a significant challenge. When we reached out to the hosting provider, they were unable to disclose the administrator due to privacy regulations like PoPIA, as the domain was not registered under the owner’s information.
While this story may sound unbelievable, I have encountered similar situations before. Some web designers and hosting providers fail to set up domains and emails properly, leaving individuals in the dark. It emphasizes the importance of engaging reputable professionals for such services.
As e-laws become more stringent and regulations evolve, it is crucial for businesses to proactively address digital behavior and e-security. Public perception can swiftly damage a company’s reputation, affecting the bottom line and the safety of staff, suppliers, and clients. Don’t delay in preparing your business—getting ready is not a costly endeavor.
I provide e-assessments, recommendations, workshops, training, and action plans tailored for small to medium-sized businesses concerning e-behavior and e-safety. These services can equip your company to become proactive rather than reactive in handling issues like data breaches, hacks, or establishing e-policies.
In navigating the ever-changing e-world, experience, perseverance, and innovation are key. With an abundance of these qualities, I extend my expertise to clients who seek assistance in maintaining e-control.
The End.
Ignorant or Naïve?
In 2023, it is unacceptable for a business owner to have no understanding of their e-intellectual property and assets. It is essential to know who has control over your emails, website files, data, and devices. This lack of awareness constitutes poor e-behavior.
E-behavior is a topic I frequently address, encompassing various aspects of online conduct, including social media usage, emails, websites, apps, and devices. It also touches on issues like online bullying, e-criminals, and e-regulations, wherein the authorities appear either absent or ill-prepared. This leaves individuals to take on the responsibility of self-education, a task that many lack the time or interest to pursue. Unfortunately, this poses a significant security risk for businesses.
Businesses face the challenge of legal requirements mandating adherence to certain standards when processing, storing, or sharing data. Failure to comply can lead to fines and even criminal charges, depending on the jurisdiction. PoPIA is just one aspect, highlighting the broader realm of e-laws and regulations.
But wait, there is MORE!
Who is Jean-Pierre Murray-Kline?
Jean-Pierre is a South African serial e-entrepreneur, published author, and change champion who has worked in over 300 types of industries in some capacity or another. His own online businesses have generated millions of Rands and involved sectors such as law, web & app development, events & entertainment, property, technical services, media, and tourism.
He has traveled to over 180 cities worldwide and is extremely active as a business and environmental technologist. In addition to his own projects, he researches and consults on all things online: marketing, reputation, compliance, law, and e-security, and also offers strategy workshops and scenario sessions on future thinking with a key focus on technology, the environment, and global influences.
Jean-Pierre is often asked to be a guest speaker on a variety of subjects he continuously studies and writes about.
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