We’ve waved goodbye to Christmas, rang in the new year, and are now looking ahead to Valentine’s Day and Easter. But before we head out to buy bouquets of roses and giant chocolate eggs, we still have one underrated occasion taking place today – and anyone working in the data protection industry should be able to tell me what it is. That’s right – it’s National Blueberry Pancake Day! …Or is it International Lego Day? National Kazoo Day? Elijah Wood’s birthday? Who knew there were so many holidays? Well, we can celebrate all those in our own time. Maybe I’ll have a pancake breakfast, build a Lego tower, and send a card to Elijah Wood, but I’m sure you’re aware none of those are the particular holiday I have in mind. The one I’m talking about is, of course, Data Protection Day.
When did Data Protection Day start?
Though Data Protection Day doesn’t come with flashy fireworks, tasty chocolates, or gifts stacked under a tree, it spreads the word about something that massively affects us all worldwide, and it deserves our attention when it comes around.
The day started in 2007 in Europe, commemorating the signing of Convention 108 – the first legally binding international treaty on data protection. It has since become a global initiative dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of privacy, data protection, and safeguarding personal information.
Data protection is becoming more mainstream
Working at DPAS, it’s obvious to us that data privacy matters – after all, it’s our everyday topic. But I think it has grown in importance and become more present in the public consciousness with the rise of the use of online banking, social media… online everything, actually. The population in general seems much more aware of keeping private information just that – private – need-to-know – just enough!
It’s not just a technical issue though for people who use technology – it’s actually a human right. Article 8 of the Human Rights Act 1998 protects the right to respect for private and family life, home, and correspondence.
How can we do our part for data protection?
However, we can’t just expect and assume that everyone else will abide by privacy laws. We need to have an input. We have to make an effort both about our own information and about other people’s. So what can we do?
There are a number of simple things we should be thinking about, both at home and at work. In honour of Data Protection Day, let’s consider what these are.
Safeguarding personal identity: Personal data, such as names, addresses, financial details, and medical records, is valuable to cybercriminals. Protecting this information helps prevent identity theft and fraud.
Building trust: For businesses, respecting customer privacy builds trust and loyalty. Transparent data practices demonstrate that an organisation values its customers.
Empowering people: Understanding how data is collected, stored, and used empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their online activities.
Protecting your data on Data Protection Day
Safeguarding the personal information of yourself and others is obviously crucial all year round. This annual occasion is an excellent opportunity, however, to really consider what more you can be doing, not just for others, but for yourself.
Today of all days, I urge you to think about the bullet points below and maybe encourage others, too – why not talk about it at work? (I’ve been nagging at my colleagues for years!) Here are some of the actions that individuals can take to ensure stronger data security.
Strengthen your passwords: Use unique, strong passwords for each account, and consider using a password manager.
Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA): Add an extra layer of security to your accounts by enabling MFA where possible.
Review privacy settings: Regularly review and adjust privacy settings on social media platforms, apps, and devices.
Be wary of phishing attempts: Avoid clicking on suspicious links or providing personal information to unknown sources.
Limit data sharing: Share only the information necessary and think twice before providing personal details online.
What can organisations do to improve data protection measures?
Adopt data protection by design and by default: Integrate privacy measures into the design of products and services from the outset.
Train your employees: Educate staff on data privacy best practices and the importance of protecting customer information through data protection training.
Comply with regulations: Adhere to data protection laws, such as UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act 2018, to ensure compliance and avoid penalties.
Conduct regular audits: Assess and update data protection policies and practices regularly.
Invest in cybersecurity: Implement robust security measures, including firewalls, encryption, and regular vulnerability assessments.
Celebrating Data Protection Day
Data Protection Day is not just about awareness; it’s about action.
But before action can take place, data protection needs to be in the conversation. Through workshops, articles, simply talking – whatever the medium, do your bit to raise the awareness of this important topic.
At DPAS, we like to do our part by providing expert data protection training, conducting thorough audits to help organisations keep their standard of compliance as high as possible, and hosting regular live events to keep the discussion around privacy buzzing.
The challenges of protecting personal information keep on evolving, and while it may feel like an uphill battle to keep up with the times, Data Protection Day is a reminder that we all play a role in safeguarding our digital lives. By staying informed and proactive, we can create a safer, more privacy-conscious world for everyone. So, today, take a moment to reflect on your data privacy habits and make a commitment to better protect your digital footprint. After all, privacy isn’t just about keeping secrets—it’s about maintaining control over what’s rightfully yours.
GET OUR FREE POSTER TO SHARE WITH YOUR TEAM
To spread awareness and promote a healthy data protection culture, why not download our handy “8 Privacy Tips” poster? Sharing this with your team will be a good reminder of how the information we handle should be best protected, helping staff to always think “privacy”.
Written by Teresa Gudge (Privacy Consultant)