Is Robotic Process Automation Safe?

Robotic Process Automation (RPA) has been and will continue to be a game-changer for many industries, automating mundane and repetitive tasks. Freeing up time for employees to focus on value adding activities. However, as with any technology that deals with data, questions about safety, security, and compliance inevitably arise.
In this blog post, we'll explore the various aspects of RPA's safety. We’ll look at data security, compliance with regulations like GDPR, platforms that encourage RPA use, and what the future holds for this innovative technology.

Is Data Safe When Using RPA?

This is usually the first question that springs to mind when thinking about the implications of having a computer carry out tasks for you. If the automation will be using personal information that is subject to regulations such as GDPR, then the question becomes even more important.
The safety of data in RPA processes hinges on the implementation and management of the RPA tools themselves. RPA bots are designed to follow strict rules and can be more reliable in handling data than humans who might make errors or violate data protection policies. However, like any software, RPA solutions are only secure if they have been built with proper care and attention. Ensuring data safety involves:

• - Choosing reputable RPA vendors that prioritise security features.
• - Implementing robust encryption for data when being sent and stored.
• - Regularly updating and patching RPA software to mitigate vulnerabilities.

While there's an inherent risk in any digital operation, a well-managed RPA system can significantly reduce the risk of data breaches compared to manual processes. This report by Verizon found that 74% of all breaches include the human element, with people being involved either via Error, Privilege Misuse, Use of stolen credentials or Social Engineering. So removing the human element could actually increase security of data.

Is There an Increased Risk of Being Hacked?

The risk of being hacked does not inherently increase by simply adopting RPA technology. The security of RPA-driven processes largely depends on the underlying IT infrastructure and the security measures in place. However, introducing RPA into an environment without adequate security practices can present new vulnerabilities, particularly if sensitive tasks are automated without proper encryption and access controls. As with any IT solution, maintaining a strong security policy is critical.

Does RPA Comply with GDPR?

RPA is a tool and does not inherently comply or fail to comply with GDPR or any other data protection regulations. RPA should be seen in the same way as other tools used that store data such as customer databases, sales tools and accounting platforms. RPA can be designed to enhance GDPR compliance by automating the enforcement of data protection rules and maintaining detailed logs of data processing activities.
Ensuring RPA complies with GDPR requires:

• - Conducting data protection assessments for RPA projects to ensure all data is handled correctly.
• - Designing RPA bots to adhere to the principles of data minimisation and purpose limitation (ensuring that data is only used and stored if absolutely needed).
• - Regularly updating and patching RPA software to mitigate vulnerabilities.

Will Services Block or Ban Me for Using RPA?

The risk of being blocked or banned for using RPA depends on the terms of service of the platforms you are interacting with. Generally, if a website or service specifically states in its Terms of Service "don't use a bot", it’s usually because they offer an API for a fee that they prefer you use. For example Zillow, a US-based property site (similar to Zoopla or Rightmove) doesn’t allow bots because they sell API access.
However with growing understand of what RPA is and how it is used, services are permitting responsible bot usage on their site or platform. Responsible use of RPA involves managing the number of requests that you make of a website or platform, whitelisting your IP address if necessary and generally using the service in a way similar to how a person would.

Are There Any Platforms or Websites That Encourage RPA?

Yes, there are platforms and websites that encourage or even rely on RPA for integration and automation. For instance, many cloud services offer APIs specifically designed for automated access by bots for legitimate business purposes, including data analytics, backup services, and integrated business processes. These platforms typically provide detailed documentation and support to facilitate secure and efficient automation.

What Does the Future of RPA Look Like?

The future of RPA looks promising, with broader adoption and a deeper understanding of its capabilities and limitations. As organisations continue to recognise the value of automating routine tasks, the demand for RPA solutions is expected to grow. This growth will likely be accompanied by advancements in AI and machine learning, making RPA tools even more intelligent and capable.
However, with increased adoption comes greater scrutiny. It's likely that security and compliance will become even more critical, driving innovation in RPA solutions to ensure they can meet these demands. The successful future of RPA will depend on striking a balance between leveraging its benefits and mitigating potential risks through robust security and compliance practices.