Have you ever experienced the mind-boggling phenomenon of brainstorming an idea or discussing a product with a friend, only to hop online and stumble upon that exact idea or product? It's like the digital world has a sneaky way of eavesdropping on our conversations! While it may seem like a magical coincidence, it's actually a result of the intricate web of data and algorithms that shape our online world.
As we celebrate Data Protection Week under the theme: Take Control of your Data, it behoves us to remind ourselves of the power we hold in protecting our own information and the impact it can have on our lives. Although You cannot really control how the tiniest piece of data about you is collected, you can help manage your own data with a few repeatable behaviours like the following:
Take control of your digital footprint: Reflect on the information you share online and consider its long-term implications. Remember, every piece of data contributes to your digital footprint.
Adjust your privacy settings to your comfort level: Many web browsers, computers, and devices will often ask you if you want to share certain types of data with a new app or website. Strike up a habit of paying attention to these requests and actually thinking about your answers. Some common types of data you might be asked for include your location, your contacts, your photos and camera, and data about your behaviour and use of service.
Create Unique Passwords: Create long (at least 12 characters) unique passwords for your account and device. Include a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Avoid using easily guessable information like birthdays or pet names. Use a password manager to store each password.
Turn off default settings: Here are some default settings you should usually turn off unless you need them for the app to function and you trust the app: camera, microphone, location and sync contacts.
Foster a data-conscious mindset: Develop a habit of regularly reviewing and updating your privacy settings on social media platforms and other online services. Turn on automatic device, software, and browser updates, or make sure you install updates as soon as they are available. Software updates often include security patches that address vulnerabilities and protect against potential threats.
Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA): Activate MFA whenever possible. This adds an extra layer of security by requiring an extra form of verification, such as a code sent to your phone or email, in addition to your password. This keeps your data safe even if your password is compromised.
Be cautious of phishing attempts: Stay vigilant against phishing emails, messages, and calls. Be skeptical of unsolicited requests for personal information or financial details. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. Verify the authenticity of any communication by contacting the organization directly through official channels.
Be mindful of public Wi-Fi: Exercise caution when using public Wi-Fi networks. Avoid accessing sensitive information, such as online banking or personal accounts, when connected to unsecured networks. Use a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your data and ensure a secure connection if necessary.
Back up your data: Regularly back up your important data to an external hard drive, cloud storage, or another secure location. This ensures that even if your device is compromised, you can still access and recover your valuable information.
Dispose of data securely: When disposing of old devices or physical documents containing personal information, ensure they are properly wiped or destroyed.