Secure Data Handling for VAs: Simple Policies and Tools

Protecting sensitive data when working with VAs is non-negotiable. This tutorial outlines practical controls and simple policies you can adopt immediately.

Access Controls

• Use a password manager (LastPass, 1Password) and share vault items with limited permissions.
• Create role-based access rather than sharing master credentials.
• Use Google Workspace's sharing permissions for files.

Communication Security

• Prefer secure tools (Slack with SSO, encrypted email where needed).
• Avoid sending full credentials over chat; use password manager sharing.

Policies to Implement

• NDA signed before sharing confidential information.
• Two-factor authentication required where possible.
• Minimal access principle: grant only what’s needed.
• Regular access reviews and revocation when no longer needed.

Incident Response (Simple)

1. Revoke access immediately.
2. Change shared passwords.
3. Notify stakeholders and review logs.
4. Restore from backups if needed.

These straightforward steps dramatically reduce exposure risk while keeping workflows efficient. I can generate an access-control checklist for your repo if helpful.