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Outsourcing work is an obvious choice for many accountants seeking efficiency, scalability, and cost savings. From bookkeeping and payroll processing to accounts and tax preparation, outsourcing allows accountants to focus on high-value advisory services while reducing operational burdens.
However, one issue continues to dominate discussions around outsourcing and that is data security.
Why Data Security Matters When Outsourcing Work
Accountants handle sensitive financial information every day, including client records, tax documents, payroll details, and business data. Ensuring the security and privacy of this information is critical when partnering with an outsourcing provider. Accountants must ensure their offshore partner has a robust framework of data security controls and physical safeguards. When looking to outsource work, accountants should consider the following.
Infrastructure and Technology
A reliable accounting outsourcing partner will have invested in their offshore security infrastructure, including:
- Encrypted data transfer
- Secure cloud environments
- Multi-factor authentication (MFA)
- Firewall protection
- Continuous system monitoring.
These technologies help prevent unauthorised access and protect data from cyber threats.
Access Controls
When setting up a contract, the outsource provider will usually identify members of the offshore team who need access to client data. These will be named individuals working with role-based access controls, minimising the risk of unauthorised access.
Some accountants decide the offshore team should see only limited amounts or anonymised client data; others decide the offshore team needs full access to client information to work effectively.
Compliance with Industry Standards
Reputable outsource providers can provide evidence they comply with international data security standards, such as:
- GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation)
- ISO 27001 Information Security Management Standards
- Local data protection regulations.
When considering an offshore partner, accountants should ask for the latest data security and audit certificates before entering into any contract.
Employee Training
Most reputable outsource providers provide ongoing training to employees responsible for handling data and can provide evidence of this upon request. This may involve online learning, accreditation for staff and regular updates based on emerging best practice or case studies around data security. Including the offshore team in any training or staff updates ensures awareness of the emerging risks around data security and the action required in the event a data breach occurs.
Regular Security Audits
Routine audits and risk assessments help identify potential weaknesses before they become serious issues. When considering an outsourcing partner, onshore accountants should ask about:
- Risk assessment processes implemented offshore
- Incident response plans in the event of data loss
- Business continuity and disaster recovery procedures.
Outsourcing work does not mean losing control of sensitive information. With modern technologies, industry-best standards, and well-defined operational procedures, accountants can enjoy the benefits of outsourcing while maintaining the highest levels of data security.
Unison Globus UK Data Security Accreditations
Unison Globus UK is an ISO 27001 accredited company. Our most recent independent audit confirms our information and data management systems meet the highest international standards set out in the latest (2022) version of ISO 27001. The audit and certification process confirms our internal protocols, systems and day-to-day operating procedures meet global best practices and that our leadership team is committed to managing emerging threats to our data security.
We are GDPR compliant and we guarantee data security through the selection of the most secure, latest accounting software in our advanced systems. We also have physical safeguards to make sure that data will not be lost or misused. Our people receive regular training on data protection and security matters.
How do I find out more?
At Unison Globus, we have been providing offshore services to accountants since 2006. Our customers include sole proprietors, as well as small and medium sized UK Accountancy Practices. Our outsourced tax, accounting and payroll services are suitable for all client engagements – from sole traders and micro businesses to SMEs and large companies.
We provide a free trial of up to 10 hours of accountant time, with turnaround in 72 hours. If you’re looking to outsource services for the first time, increase margins, and help your clients thrive, you can book a video call with one of our expert advisors or email us at [email protected].
