[Guest Post] Future of Data Integrity

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EVERY day, millions of businesses and people around the world create data. This can include emails, text messages, voice recordings, photos, financial databases, online encyclopedias, social media posts and much more. While lots of data is created on a daily basis, it can be challenging to understand how this data doesn’t get corrupted. It’s important to remember that hard drives can fail, operating systems can become corrupted, and communication glitches can cause data errors and much more. However, modern computers use a number of tools to make sure that data doesn’t get corrupted over time. The following guide explores how verification software, like email verification systems, can be used to ensure the integrity of data.

When an individual creates data, that data is stored on a computer as a combination of 1s and 0s. If any of this data changes, a file may be corrupted. Fortunately, computers use a variety of data verification systems to make sure that corruption doesn’t become a problem.

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For example, most operating systems will create a hash number for each piece of data on a hard drive. This hash number is algorithmically generated from different elements in a set of data. If any part of this data changes, the hash that is associated with that data will also change. With a hash, it’s also possible to rebuild a data file that has become corrupted. In many cases, this will take place in the background without any intervention from the user.

Data verification systems also are used on a larger level. In some cases, data may be corrupted in a way that makes is still readable to a computer. If this happens, a computer’s data verification system may not detect any problems. Fortunately, there are several ways one can ensure the integrity of data on a macro level.

For example, many people enter data incorrectly into online forms when buying products or services. If an issue isn’t noticed by a customer or business, an order or service may be delivered to the wrong home or business address. In addition, it may not be possible to reach an individual if he or she doesn’t enter the correct contact information.

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With an address verification system, it’s possible to make sure that all information entered into a form is correct. For example, it’s possible to detect if a zip code aligns with a certain town or state. If it doesn’t, an individual may have entered his or her address in an incorrect way.

It’s also possible to use an address verification system to make sure that one has entered his or her email address correctly into a web form. By making sure that an email address follows the correct structure, it’s possible to make sure that a business will be able to contact a customer or client if necessary.

In addition, address verification systems are often used when accepting credit card payments. Since credit card fraud is a common problem in many parts of the world, online retailers will often incorporate a verification system to make sure that an order isn’t fraudulent. By making sure that an address lines up with a credit card number, it’s possible to reduce credit card fraud and the expenses associated with it.

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About the author: 

Caitlin Laura is a senior developer with Experian QAS. She enjoys reading and writing about technology. She also enjoys travelling with her husband and two kids.