Data Privacy Day is January 28 2021

In our increasingly digital world, protecting your privacy and personal information is an important and sometimes confusing task.  Do you know how your information is being collected and used?  How do you safeguard your data and create a culture of privacy?  In honor of Data Privacy Day on January 28, 2021, here’s a list of helpful tips and information to make navigating this ever-changing digital atmosphere a little easier.

1. Be aware of how companies collect and use your personal information. When you sign up for new services, such as utilities, payment services, cell phone carriers, online accounts, etc. be cognizant of the information requested and how it is being used.  Read the fine print on disclaimers provided at the time you set up your account.
2. Manage your privacy settings. If you are unsure how to find the privacy settings, you can find a list of popular services and online vendors here.  Simply click on the name of the vendor to be redirected to their page.  You should check the privacy settings at least once a year and verify they are at a level you are comfortable with.
3. Remember what happens online, stays online. For example, when you post videos and comments on social media sites, it can easily be copied and is almost impossible to take back even if you delete it from your account.
4. Talk with your children about what information is okay to share and what is not. Never share addresses, photos, and phone numbers.
5. Be cautious about how much personal information you provide on social networking sites. The more information you post, the easier it may be for a hacker or someone else to use that information to steal your identity, access your data or commit other crimes such as stalking. Just because a website asks you for your address, photo, or mother’s maiden name, doesn’t mean you actually have to answer honestly.
6. People aren’t always who they say they are online. Adults of all ages need to be wary of strangers and those appearing to be your friends or loved ones online. It is too easy for criminals to hide their true identity and appear trustworthy. If someone asks to be your friend on a social media platform, only accept their request if you know them. If someone online asks you for money or sensitive information, pick up the phone and call a trusted number. Dating online? Don’t send money or sensitive financial or personal information to anyone you have never met.

For more information, visit the following resources
www.staysafeonline.com

www.ftc.gov/passiton

https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0031-protecting-your-childs-privacy-online

https://www.consumerreports.org/privacy/protect-childrens-online-privacy/

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