Data Privacy Week January 21-27, 2024
Did you know that personal data can be stored indefinitely? According to the National Cybersecurity Alliance, our data is collected daily with our computers, smartphones, smartwatches, cars, and any other internet-connected device that gathers data. This data is used to make assumptions about your socioeconomic status, demographic information, and preferences. If this sends chills down your spine, don’t fear because you can take steps to control how this data is collected, stored, and shared.
What is Data Privacy?
Data privacy is a privacy right for specific information not to be observed or shared with others. Data privacy is crucial today because the amount of information about you or your activities online is overwhelming.
There are multiple pillars your data is categorized into. First, there is personal information, including your name, birthdate, and Social Security number. Also, your personal information can be your medical records, credit card numbers, etc.
The next pillar includes your digital footprint. This data includes how long you stay on a website, what products you buy online, and who you communicate with on social platforms. The first thing that comes to mind is why anyone would want this information. Advertisers and other businesses prize this data because they can better target ads and products at individuals. Although this data is anonymous, a cross-section of data about you can be put together to personalize ads for an individual.
Data Privacy Importance
Data privacy is the right to keep your data private. It is crucial that you know your data privacy rights and that you make choices to share what you feel is appropriate. If you don’t pay attention, you might download a program or plug-in that scans your email for data and sells it to advertisers. Knowing your data privacy rights might make you think twice about allowing the service access to your email inbox if you know they sell your data.
Data Privacy vs. Cybersecurity
These two topics are different fields but go hand in hand with one another. Data privacy revolves around rules, guidelines, and your choices about who has access to your data, etc. Cybersecurity revolves around preventing and solving threats like hacking, malware, and online scams. It is vital to be knowledgeable on both topics. Check out our cybersecurity blog here!