CheckPoint Software > Case Studies > Skipton Building Society Enhances Data Security with Pointsec Protector

Skipton Building Society Enhances Data Security with Pointsec Protector

Technology Category

Cybersecurity & Privacy - Application Security
Sensors - Temperature Sensors

Applicable Industries

Buildings
National Security & Defense

Applicable Functions

Quality Assurance

Use Cases

Building Automation & Control
Tamper Detection

Services

Cybersecurity Services
Testing & Certification

About The Customer

Skipton Building Society is the seventh largest building society in the UK. Founded in 1853, it has 79 branches spread from Aberdeen to Plymouth. The society is responsible for the finances of businesses and consumers alike, making data security a paramount concern. In 1998, the society embarked on a significant upgrade to its IT environment, replacing 'dumb' terminals with a network of internet-connected desktop computers. This move necessitated a robust security solution to guard against cyber threats and maintain data integrity.

The Challenge

Skipton Building Society, the seventh largest building society in the UK, faced a significant challenge in maintaining data integrity and security. In 1998, the society decided to upgrade its IT environment by replacing 'dumb' terminals connected to a mainframe environment with a network of desktop computers, many of which were connected to the internet. This move, while beneficial for operational efficiency, posed a significant security risk. The society needed a comprehensive security solution that could guard against the introduction of malicious code, unlicensed software programs, and unauthorized removable media devices. The solution also needed to maintain data integrity and prevent data theft, a critical requirement given the sensitive nature of the financial data the society handles.

The Solution

After evaluating several traditional antivirus vendors, Skipton Building Society chose Pointsec Protector as its security solution. The software met all the requirements of the society, offering the ability to scan all data entering the corporate network and block the introduction of any unauthorized software or malicious code. It also provided the capability to prevent employees from introducing unauthorized removable media devices onto the network, ensuring that no corporate data could be removed without permission. The software was deployed throughout the organization, covering all clients in the society's head office and all of its 79 branch locations. Pointsec Protector became the primary security defense for Skipton, enhanced only with managed service email scanning and a firewall. In a few isolated cases, an additional desktop antivirus solution was deployed.

Operational Impact

The use of Pointsec Protector has been largely transparent to Skipton's employees, with the software continually scanning data without user intervention. Despite this, the software has provided robust protection against high-profile virus attacks over the last six years. The few virus infections that did occur were traced back to clients not protected by the software, highlighting its effectiveness. The software also protects against newer security threats such as spyware and keylogging, critical in a financial environment. Skipton's security team has been in constant dialogue with Check Point, the provider of Pointsec Protector, advising on new features they would like to see in the product. They are currently testing the latest version of the product, which offers transparent encryption for removable media devices.

Quantitative Benefit

Skipton Building Society has resisted 99.9 percent of virus infections with Pointsec Protector.
Over six years, Skipton has only experienced three virus infections, all of which were attributed to clients not protected by Pointsec Protector.
Skipton has over 2,000 licenses of Pointsec Protector, covering all clients in the society's head office and all of its 79 branch locations.