As mergers and acquisitions (M&As) increase around the world cybersecurity is more important than ever. If confidential information is disclosed during M&A due diligence or in post-M&A transactions, the stakes are high.

The good news is that the appropriate software can assist M&A CISOs to ensure the integrity of their data, ensure compliance, and protect against the risks that come with M&A activities. The ideal data room software integrates digital tools into an integrated platform that allows simple file uploads, one sign-on and thorough auditing. This helps compliance teams keep control by keeping out any accidental disclosure.

Virtual data rooms are a fantastic method of managing the M&A process from due diligence to post-M&A integration and operations. VDRs allow users with access to read comments, share, and even comment on sensitive documents with no risk of leakage. They also allow users to create activity reports that show who has accessed and read specific document pages. These reports will deter criminals from leaking information because they can be traced to individual users. These reports can also help M&A CISOs to evaluate the level of interest from potential buyers or investors.

Many M&A deals are dependent on the dataroom value of intellectual property. Life science companies, for instance, rely on virtual data rooms to manage everything from the results of clinical trials and HIPAA compliance to licensing IP and the storage of patient records. It is not unusual for companies to be required to review and provide huge volumes of documentation during M&A due-diligence. This can be a lengthy and labor-intensive process for both the company being purchased and the acquirer. A VDR allows you to share this information safely and efficiently.

Regardless of the industry, M&A can be a complex business procedure that can pose significant security risks. During the integration and operations phases of the M&A cycle and beyond, the M&A team must be aware of possible risks from cybercriminals and their competitors. These risks include malware, unauthorised access to systems and networks, sabotage and other disruptions that could harm the M&A’s business model.

With the right cybersecurity solutions in place M&A can be a profitable and rewarding business experience. M&A can provide businesses with an chance to expand their global footprint and enhance their value. To ensure that this value isn’t affected, a specific cybersecurity strategy should be in place prior to any transactions begin. Download our free guide Cybersecurity for M&A – From the M&A Playbook to learn more. Todd Thiemann is director of marketing for the product of ReliaQuest GreyMatter, a Security Operations Platform that allows cybersecurity to be achieved through M&A and provides transparency, removing the complexity of heterogeneous security stacks, and reducing risk and uncertainty so that your company can achieve its objectives.