Let's shine the light on privacy in celebration of International Data Privacy Day!
Data Privacy Day has been celebrated in Europe on January 28th since 2006, when it was established to commemorate the January 28, 1981 signing of Convention 108, the first legally binding international treaty dealing with individual privacy and data protection. The U.S. and Canada started celebrating the day in 2008.
More recently, and given the prevalence of data in our increasingly digital world, Privacy Day has been extended to a full week. The National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA) has set the theme for Data Privacy Week 2023 to be part of its global online safety, security, and privacy campaign called ‘STOP. THINK. CONNECT.’ You can learn more about the NCSA's Data Privacy Week initiative here.
Evidation's commitment to data privacy is a cornerstone of our business and reputation. As part of that commitment, we will not share your health information without your permission. We also make sure you have the tools you need to exercise control over your data. Our Privacy Notice can give you more insight into our privacy principles and how we collect, handle, and protect your personal information and data.
Recently, a number of states have enacted new consumer privacy laws intended to ensure that individuals are able to protect their privacy and the data they share with companies. These laws require companies to (among other things) inform individuals about the personal data they collect, why they collect it, how and with whom they share the data, and to enable certain rights for individuals with respect to their own information.
While these laws can help to ensure that individuals have control over their data, the protection and privacy of your information is actually a partnership between you and the companies to which you entrust your personal information.
What you can do to keep your data and identity safe
We’re honored to be a partner on your health and wellness journey and are committed to protecting the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of your information. But it's important to recognize that, as individuals, we owe ourselves a similar commitment to our own privacy and personal information. Just like the new year is an opportunity for many folks to make changes to improve their lifestyle and health choices, Data Privacy Day can be the inspiration we each need to prioritize understanding (and exercising control over) who has our data and why, and ensuring our personal information is secure. So, be sure to take some time for yourself on this year's Data Privacy Day.
4 tips to protect your identity and data:
- Know. You are likely giving your personal data to every app, online account, platform, etc. that you join, even if it's not needed. Know what data you're allowing to be accessed, by who, and why, and consider either limiting the access or not using the app. Does your recipe app really need your geolocation? Does your music app really need access to your contacts? Likely not. If you're not sure what data you've permissioned, try looking in your settings or, if you're able, submit an access request to the company.
- Get cleaning. Get rid of apps and accounts that you're not using or no longer need. This can include reward programs (like at grocery or retail stores). As part of this clean up, (if you're able) submit a deletion request.
- Control. Check and update your privacy and security settings. Most apps and accounts allow you to do this in “settings” either in the app or on your device. And be sure to check your internet browser and "cookie" settings as well. You can find additional information about managing cookies here.
- Secure it. Here's how you can better secure your information:
- Use strong, unique passwords and consider a password manager.
- Turn on multi-factor / two-factor authentication whenever possible.
- Don't be hooked - be able to spot and avoid phishing attempts (including via text or phone).
- Freeze or put blocks on your credit (as well as those of your dependents), and consider credit monitoring services.
- Manage your "cookies" on your internet browsers and on webpages.
- Know what other tools your mobile devices or other services offer that can provide additional privacy or security options (e.g., on iOS, gmail and others you can "hide" your name and email address)
And remember to celebrate your favorite privacy professionals and enthusiasts on January 28th.
