Data is one of the most valuable assets of any organisation. At the same time, the volume of information continues to grow rapidly, making it harder to maintain control. Without clear rules on how sensitive data is and who should have access, unnecessary risks quickly arise.
In the e-learning Data Classification and the ‘Need to Know’ Principle, employees learn that information security starts with awareness and structure — not technology alone. The course shows that people already classify information instinctively in everyday life: some information is public, some is shared with close circles, and some is kept strictly private.
The course explains data classification as the process of categorising information based on sensitivity and value. Organisations may use different classification levels, such as non-business, public, internal, confidential, highly confidential and secret. Participants learn what these levels mean and what risks arise when sensitive data is shared too widely.
Through both professional and personal scenarios, the importance of classification becomes clear. In a business setting, proper classification helps prevent data breaches, supports compliance and improves efficiency. In a private scenario, lack of structure leads to loss of control — illustrating the same risks in a relatable way.
The course also focuses on the ‘need to know’ access principle, which ensures that employees only have access to information required to perform their job. Participants learn how this principle complements data classification and why excessive access increases security risks.
Practical security measures are also addressed, including authentication, multi-factor authentication and physical access controls. Employees learn how classification helps determine which protections are necessary and who is responsiblefor safeguarding information.
The course concludes with clear guidance for daily practice: understand what information is sensitive, follow organisational guidelines, secure data properly and report incidents immediately. In this way, every employee contributes to safe and controlled information management.
What will participants learn?
After completing this course, participants will:
- understand what data classification is and why it matters
- know different classification levels and their meaning
- recognise which information is sensitive
- understand the ‘need to know’ access principle
- know who should have access to specific information
- handle company data safely and responsibly
Who is this course for?
This course is suitable for:
- all employees handling business or personal data
- organisations aiming to prevent data breaches
- teams strengthening information security practices
- employees without technical or legal expertise
Why this course is relevant right now
Many data breaches result from unclear classification and excessive access rights. Training employees on these principles significantly reduces security and privacy risks.