Data Privacy Day

Data Privacy Day on January 28 serves as a timely reminder at the start of every new year, encouraging us to prioritize the protection of our personal data as our online and offline worlds continue to merge. Despite living in a digital era, most of us only consider data privacy seriously after experiencing a breach. Our growing dependence on digital tools for managing daily life highlights the need to be cautious about what we disclose, when we disclose it, and who we disclose it to. Data Privacy Day is part of the global campaign, ‘STOP. THINK. CONNECT.’, led by the National Cyber Security Alliance (NCSA).

The History of Data Privacy Day

The importance of data privacy extends beyond the digital age, having been a concern for decades. Our data has been collected and exploited by various entities such as banks, manufacturers, political parties, and more, often for profit. With digital technology, collecting personal data has become easier, whether legally or illegally. Given that 4.66 billion global internet users exist, vast amounts of unsecured data are vulnerable.

Data privacy often doesn’t top our priority list. Most of us unknowingly compromise our data security by neglecting privacy practices, due to confusion between data security and data privacy. While data security is akin to installing bars on your windows to prevent break-ins, data privacy is like drawing the shades to conceal personal details from prying eyes.

We, as technology users, tend to trust companies with our data, assuming they will protect it. However, many people with access to our personal information shouldn’t have it. Data Privacy Day urges everyone “on the grid” to reassess their data safety measures, reminding us that personal information is valuable and must be safeguarded like money.

Key Milestones of Data Privacy Day

• 1981: The first international treaty for personal data protection, Convention 108, is signed.
• 2006: Europe initiates the first Data Protection Day.
• 2008: Data Privacy Day is observed in the U.S.
• 2009: The U.S. House of Representatives recognizes National Data Privacy Day.
• 2014: U.S. Congress designates January 28 as National Data Privacy Day.

Why Data Privacy Matters

Your personal data holds value. If stolen by cybercriminals, it can be sold on the dark web and used to commit identity theft, draining your financial accounts and more.

Who is Responsible?

There is no consensus on who should protect personal data—whether it is individuals, businesses, or governments.

The Data Privacy Scandal

The Facebook data privacy scandal involved the unauthorized collection of data from up to 87 million users.

Celebrating Data Privacy Day

• Commit to Protecting Your Data: Start taking data privacy seriously and learn more about it every day.
• Understand the Internet of Things: Explore how interconnected your digital devices are and take steps to protect your data from unnecessary sharing.
• Educate Others: Share your digital knowledge with older adults to protect them from cyber threats.

Five Ways to Safeguard Your Privacy

1. Update Operating Systems & Software: Keep all devices updated.
2. Adjust Privacy Settings: Regularly revise your browser’s privacy settings and clear cookies.
3. Reset Home Routers: Contact your ISP for router updates.
4. Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Employ a password manager if needed.
5. Shred Physical Documents: Destroy any paperwork containing personal information.

Importance of Data Privacy Day

• Be Vigilant: Avoid complacency as it benefits cybercriminals.
• Prevent Identity Theft: Protect your data to avoid devastating consequences.
• Realize Everyone is a Target: Regardless of assets, everyone is susceptible to data theft.

Data Privacy Day Dates

• 2025: January 28, Tuesday
• 2026: January 28, Wednesday
• 2027: January 28, Thursday
• 2028: January 28, Friday
• 2029: January 28, Sunday

For further reading and detailed articles about data privacy, please visit Find No More.

What is the date of Data Privacy Day every year?

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