We live in a digital age where our lives are interconnected via the internet and digital technologies. While these technologies are beneficial but they come with certain risks that both businesses and individuals must be aware. One of these dangers is data breaches when personal information is compromised.
How can you protect your customers’ and clients’ personal data? You can reduce the chance of data breaches by doing several things. First, limit the amount of personal data that you gather. You should only collect the minimum required to perform your business functions. You should also limit the length of time the personal data is stored and delete it once it’s no longer required.
Another option is to use encryption software to secure the data you have. This makes it hard for hackers, if they gain access to your computer, to gain access to your personal data. You must also ensure that your devices are secure physically. Never leave your device unattended. Always secure it when not in use.
You should also get in the habit of reading privacy policies. This will give you an understanding of how the companies that you use collect, process and share your personal information. They should be able explain the reason they collect your data and answer any questions that you may have.
It is crucial to be aware of the various definitions of personal data around the globe as each jurisdiction will have its own laws that govern the way you handle personal data. Many of these definitions, however, are essentially the same. It is important to know what constitutes personal information in order to comply.