We are sure that you all have more exciting events in your calendar than Data Privacy Day, which is today (January 28th). However, this day serves as a massive reminder of the value of security and should not be taken lightly. Data Privacy Day was first launched 35 years ago as Data Protection Day with the aim to improve security and privacy awareness to those online, on mobile and on computers and has since become hugely celebrated.
There has never been a better time to make sure that you are following all of the best practises and here are just a few tips that we have put together for you:
• Ensure that passwords, passcodes and timeouts are enabled on all devices including mobiles phones, tablets and computers. Passwords and passcodes will stop other people from getting on them and by setting a timeout, if for any reason you forget to lock your device the private passcode or password will be needed after a short period of inactivity.
• Do not share any private information with others online, whether that is your Netflix password or credit card number. If for any reason you must share a password with anyone else, make sure that you trust them and update it immediately once they no longer need it.
• Set up two-step verification practices where possible. This provides optimum protection as it requires not only a password as usual but also something that only the user has access too such as a one-time code being sent to a mobile.
• Don’t see updates as an inconvenience. Companies are always fixing bugs and improving overall performance and protection so install all updates as soon as possible to avoid risking your privacy.
• When using public Wi-Fi be sure not to share sensitive data or even access anything using sensitive data such as your online banking. If for any reason you have to do this, change your password as soon as you reach a trusted connection.
We hope these tips have been helpful for you, but if you would like further advice or would like to speak to a member of our team about data privacy, call our office on 01282 452096.
