Protecting Personal Data During Privacy Awareness Week: Strategies for Managing Your Virtual Lifestyle
In today's digital world, protecting personal data has never been more important. With the increasing amount of information being collected online, it's crucial for consumers to be vigilant and proactive about their privacy.
One of the first steps consumers can take is to use services that prioritise privacy from the outset. This could mean using secure browsers or privacy-focused search engines. Consumer-friendly apps will only request information when absolutely necessary to provide a service and will not hold onto it any longer than needed.
However, it's important to note that personal data is often collected without explicit consent. This data can include location, browsing history, devices, and inferred personal data such as personal relationships or sexuality.
Fortunately, consumers have rights to access, correct, or delete their data, as outlined in laws like the EU's GDPR and the UK's Data Protection Act. Most companies have a privacy policy on their website that provides instructions on how to request data access or deletion. If a company does not respond or comply, consumers can escalate the issue to a data protection authority like the ICO in the UK.
Another threat to consumer privacy is the "invisible risk creep," as apps and online services collect personal data without users realising it. Installing advertising tracker blockers can help limit data collection.
Experts also recommend that individuals control their personal data better by following established data protection practices. This includes managing privacy settings, using secure communication methods, and being cautious about data sharing. When using messaging apps, consider using ones that place a big emphasis on data protection, such as Signal and Session.
Adopting good security and privacy habits is essential. This includes using password managers and ensuring accounts have securely generated, random, and unique passwords. It's also advised to limit the data shared with online services, avoid 'free' services, and be wary of handing over unnecessary personal information.
Unfortunately, taking control of personal data can seem difficult due to a lack of transparency in privacy and 'opt-out' policies. Consumers often assume that bigger companies mean increased privacy, leading to trust in large social media companies like Meta or retailers such as Amazon. However, these issues persist regardless of the size or status of the organisation.
In the US, comprehensive federal privacy laws are still lacking, making it more important for consumers to manage their data carefully. The organisation dedicated to promoting digital innovation and digital rights in Switzerland is the Federal Office of Communications (BAKOM), which creates frameworks to foster innovation, protect fundamental rights, and responsibly accompany digital transformation.
In conclusion, protecting personal data is a shared responsibility between individuals, companies, and governments. By being aware of the risks, taking proactive steps to protect personal data, and demanding greater transparency and control, consumers can help ensure their privacy in the digital age.
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