Data Privacy tips from Procode’s Data Protection Officer
In today’s tech-driven world, protecting personal and organisational data is more crucial than ever. As we mark Data Privacy Day, our Data Protection Officer shares valuable insights on how Procode stays up to date with the latest data privacy trends and regulations.
Can you share a fact about data privacy that most people might not know?
One lesser-known fact about data privacy is related to metadata. Metadata, which is essentially data about data, can reveal a surprising amount of information about individuals. For example, the metadata from emails, such as the time they were sent, the recipient’s address, and even the device used, can be pieced together to create a detailed profile of someone’s habits and routines. Even if the actual content of the emails remains confidential. Many people do not consider the hidden information within a document, focusing only on protecting the contents.
How do you make sure your team stays up to date with the latest data privacy trends and regulations?
Our privacy team engages in rigorous horizon scanning to remain at the forefront of the latest privacy trends and regulations. This involves continuously monitoring a variety of sources, including industry publications, regulatory announcements, global privacy forums, and legislation tracking.
This comprehensive approach ensures that we not only follow current regulations but also adapt swiftly to new developments, thereby supporting a robust privacy framework that protects our users’ data.
How do you see the future of data privacy evolving in the next five years?
Privacy is a constantly evolving beast due to the new technologies, applications, and novel ways of processing personal data that are appearing at a rapid pace. In the next five years, I see privacy evolving to encompass a wider range of personal identifiers. As personal data becomes increasingly integral to how we heat our homes, engage with others digitally, perform our jobs, and make personal decisions, the compliance landscape will inevitably grow more complex.
Businesses will need to navigate an ever-increasing web of regulations to ensure they are protecting privacy while fostering innovation to use data to improve services. The future of data privacy will be characterised by a delicate balance between innovation, regulation, and ethical practices aimed at safeguarding individuals’ rights in a personal data-driven world.
Can you share one tip to help users better protect their data?
There are several tips to ensure your data stays as protected as possible; however, I always recommend that you check what you share and the accounts you have access to. Regularly check your bank accounts, credit reports, and online accounts for any suspicious activity. Early detection of unauthorised transactions or changes is crucial to mitigate the damage. Most of the time, criminals will gain access via information you have made public, so be mindful of the personal information you share on social media and other online platforms. The more information you make public, the easier it is to target you. Adjust your privacy settings to control who can see your posts and personal details.