Security Considerations in Big Data Solutions Adoption: Lessons from a Case Study on a Banking Institution

Adoption of Big Data Solutions (BDS) must take into consideration several issues that may affect its successful implementation, such as the issue of security and privacy. This study aims to identify security-related considerations made by organizations adopting BDS through a single case study of a Malaysian banking institution. Three main themes derived were; technological, organizational and environmental security considerations. The sub-themes identified were: challenges in securing data, capability of legacy security mechanisms, managerial security awareness, top management support, SETA, security personnel skills, employees’ perception on sensitivity of information assets, regulatory compliance, reputation of BDS vendors and environmental uncertainties. The findings of this study complement current big data, information security and technology adoption research domain. It may also provide organizations with relevant information in formulating security strategies required in a big data environment.