young professionals have become so comfortable sharing information in the social media environment that they may not realise – nor have they ever been taught – that even small pieces of information posted on a social network can cause damage to a business. Lack of both user training about security concerns and guidelines for disclosing information online can be causes for this kind of risk exposure. About the author Gordon Thomson is director, Cisco Security EMEA, a role he took on in June 2010. He joined Cisco in 1998 and has held various roles during his tenure. These roles included being responsible for Cisco’s operation in Scotland and Ireland, a post he held from 2002 to
2008 and most recently as a director as the heart of Cisco’s Worldwide Sales Strategy and Planning Office. Thomson continues to believe passionately in the ability of technology to deliver competitive
advantage and improved service in both public and private sectors. He has also been a keen contributor in various public sector organisations over the past few years, including board positions with Raploch URC, Targeting Innovation and ScotlandIS. References 1. ‘Cisco ConnectedWorld Technology Report’. Cisco, 2011. Accessed Jan 2012. www.cisco.com/en/US/netsol/
ns1120/index.html.