Knowledge base
July 31, 2025
Microsoft Copilot Secure Use in SME Businesses
Microsoft Copilot makes working with AI in Microsoft 365 easier and more efficient. But many Dutch companies wonder: what about security? Research and practical experience show that errors often occur in three key areas:
❌ Improper permissions: sensitive information is shared with the wrong people.
❌ No labels: Copilot retrieves confidential data that is not labeled.
❌ Old documents: outdated information ends up in responses and proposals.
This can lead to situations such as:
- A colleague gaining access to a document he should never have seen.
- Copilot pulling data from an old HR file from years ago.
- Sensitive customer information ending up in a proposal without you realizing it.
In this blog you will learn:
- Why secure use of Microsoft Copilot is critical.
- How to properly set up Copilot for Dutch laws and regulations.
- What mistakes to avoid.
- How ALTA-ICT can help your organization.
What is Microsoft Copilot and why crucial for Dutch companies?
Microsoft Copilot is an AI assistant in Microsoft 365 that generates content and automates tasks based on your business data. It offers many benefits:
✅ Higher productivity and time savings.
✅ Better utilization of business data.
✅ Innovation through AI in daily processes.
But precisely because Copilot works with internal documents and emails, secure use is crucial. Companies in the Netherlands must comply with AVG/GDPR and sectoral requirements (such as NEN 7510 in healthcare). Incorrect settings can lead to data breaches or compliance issues.
Implementing Microsoft Copilot – step by step
- Define access rights: Who is allowed to see what? Arrange roles and rights carefully.
- Use data labels: Label confidential documents so Copilot processes them correctly.
- Set retention policies: Delete old or irrelevant data automatically.
- Train employees: Make sure your team knows how to use Copilot safely.
- Check settings regularly: Security is not a one-time action.
ALTA-ICT helps organizations do this with a structured process, fully aligned with ISO 27001, ISO 9001 and NEN 7510 certification.
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
❌ Error 1: No clear access rights
Solution: Set access rights based on function and need.
❌ Error 2: No use of data labels
Solution: Use Microsoft Purview to classify and protect data.
❌ Error 3: Old documents remain available
Solution: Set a retention policy so that Copilot uses only current data.
❌ Error 4: Lack of training for employees
Solution: Provide training and awareness sessions on safe AI use.
Cost and ROI of safe Copilot use in the Netherlands.
The investment in a secure Copilot implementation consists of:
- License fees for Microsoft 365 and Copilot.
- Time and resources for setup, labels and policies.
- Training and awareness for employees.
But the ROI is great: ✅ Less data breach risk → lower fines and reputational damage.
✅ More efficient processes → higher productivity.
✅ Better compliance → trust with customers and partners.
How ALTA-ICT helps your company with secure Copilot use
ALTA-ICT has extensive experience implementing Microsoft 365 and Copilot at Dutch SMEs. We offer:
✅ Advice and setup of access rights, labels and policies.
✅ Training and support for employees.
✅ Compliance assurance thanks to our ISO 27001, ISO 9001 and NEN 7510 certification.
📞 Book a free ICT consultation?
Schedule an appointment through alta-ict.co.uk/acquaintance
Conclusion
Microsoft Copilot offers huge opportunities for Dutch companies, but only if it is used securely and manageably. By properly setting up access rights, data labels and retention policies, you prevent sensitive information from being shared incorrectly.
🔒 ALTA-ICT helps companies with a structured and secure Copilot implementation.
📞 S chedule a free consultation today and find out how we can help your business!
Reference
¹https://www.linkedin.com/posts/altaict_ai-mkb-microsoft365-activity-7350076946388508672-9FWM
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