How to Ensure Security and Compliance in Offshore Software Development

Quick Summary: Modern businesses are constantly looking to deliver a high-quality product/service while cutting down on the costs. The best way to achieve this is offshore software development where you get access to a worldwide talent in affordable packages. Especially when you hire from a country like India, you get the benefits of highly talented professionals available during your working hours. Along with the many benefits, offshore development services also raises a serious concern with data security and compliance. It is critical that data is not accidentally or deliberately altered. Frequent validation checks and audits should be conducted so as to quickly fix any problems with data security.  

Advancements in data security management

1. Zero Trust Security- Zero trust security is one level up from the castle and moat concept of security. It is all about strict controls on access and ongoing verification for every user, irrespective of his location or network. It challenges the conventional security model by offering a holistic approach to network security that is based on different technologies and principles. Simply put, traditional IT security networks allow access to anyone inside the network, but a zero trust security trusts no one. It means that if you employ zero trust security, nobody is trusted by default, and verification is needed from everyone–whether you are from inside or outside the network. This added layer of security prevents a lot of data breaches, which is the reason why many organizations are now adopting a zero trust security policy. 
2. AI and Machine Learning- The revolution in the world of data security is brought upon by AI and machine learning technologies, which make real-time threat detection possible. AI has predictive analysis capabilities which enable it to read data from history. Its intelligent algorithms can predict security breaches even before they occur. This approach keeps organizations ahead of cyber threats. 
3. Blockchain technology for data integrity- Blockchain technology is a new and advanced approach to privacy where it employs a cryptographic hash for robust data verification and operates on a distributed, public and permissionless network framework. Each block of data is linked to its predecessor, creating an unbreakable chain. So once the data is entered on a blockchain model, making alterations in it becomes impossible. This way, the record of data remains untouched and unaffected over years. 
4. Cloud security- Cloud security is a collection of procedures designed to reduce the number of external and internal threats to business security. It is a solution for cyber security dedicated to securing cloud computing systems. Organizations who employ cloud security can keep their data private and safe across online platforms. Cloud providers use their personal servers to host services which ensures privacy of client data. At its core, cloud security is made up of following categories- 

• Data security
• Identity and access management (IAM)
• Governance, which includes policies on threat prevention and detection
• Data retention and business continuity planning legal compliance 

Best practices to ensure security and compliance in offshore software development

1. Establishing a secure communication protocol- Choosing a secure communication channel is essential in offshore software development. Make your data transfers through a reliable channel, which is encrypted with the latest technology and there are very less chances of data compromise. Conduct routine audits and review meetings to ensure every data transfer is safe and the communication channels are working perfectly fine. 
2. Choosing a reliable offshore development associate- It is crucial to thoroughly examine the background and quality of projects completed by the selected offshore partners. Examine their history with maintaining security of their completed projects, and compliance standards to make sure they have strong security protocols in place and put the data security of their clients on top of their priorities. 
3. Continuous monitoring and risk assessment- Regular monitoring of your projects is essential to find vulnerabilities and reduce potential threats. You can conduct meetings with your team to keep a keen eye on your development procedures so that you can act quickly to resolve any potential threats. This proactive strategy helps to stay informed of the data leaks and fix them as soon as they are identified. 
4. Developing a robust security policy- Spend some time in thoroughly documenting a security policy and distributing it within your existing team and with the software development outsourcing companies. In that document, you can clearly mention the security expectations, procedures and standards for each team member involved in the project. Managers must take some time to conduct periodic meetings and feedback sessions to make sure everyone has read the document carefully and adhered to the security protocols. 

Conclusion

Securing data in offshore software development is not just a priority; it’s a practice that every organization should follow in order to maintain trust and credibility with the client. To fully leverage the many benefits offshore development comes with, businesses must prioritize robust security measures. This includes frequent check-ins with your team, regular review sessions, meet-ups, and clear documentation of your security policies. By proactively maintaining data security, businesses can protect the sensitive information of their client’s data and uphold their prestigious reputation while successfully launching offshore projects!