Personal Data: A Valuable Currency

In the modern internet age, personal data has emerged as one of the most valuable digital assets — a currency that funds connectivity. Consumers are often asked to provide their data to gain access to various convenient services. But these conveniences may come at the expense of the consumer’s privacy and security. This may include fraud, unwanted surveillance, identity theft and other scams that impact millions of people. Unfortunately, data collection is unavoidable, which makes data protection essential.

Here’s what you can do to protect your personal information:

Take Accountability

• Even though it’s nearly impossible to use various services without providing personal information, it’s important to take accountability for what you share. For example, when using mobile applications, opt out of any unnecessary permissions; a flashlight app shouldn’t need access to your text messages.

  Stay Alert for Scams

• Personal data often gets stolen when people fall for common scams both on and off the internet. You can avoid this by staying alert for warning signs, such as threatening or urgent language. Treat all requests for information with skepticism and never assume someone is who they claim to be.

  Prioritize Privacy

• Cybercriminals are always looking for easy ways to gain access to someone’s personal information. Social media is one of their first stops because they know some people tend to share more than they should. Don’t make that mistake. Limit what information you make public and set social media accounts to private.

  Use Strong Passwords

• Online accounts often have access to highly confidential information. Protect them with strong passwords that meet modern standards. A strong password is long and difficult to guess, avoids repeated characters and is unique to each account.

Remember: Security awareness is vital to protecting personal data, both at work and at home.