Data privacy is the ability for individuals to control their personal information—including their name, location, contact info and online or real-world behavior—and determine who can see and use it. It’s the foundation of trust between people and businesses, as well as between people themselves.
Data security encompasses the technical frameworks for protecting the confidentiality, integrity and availability of data. For example, encrypting data means it can only be read by authorized individuals, and ensures that unauthorized parties cannot intercept it during transit. It also includes the procedures and processes for maintaining the accuracy and security of data, including updates, deletions, and access rights.
In addition to protecting individual autonomy, implementing data privacy practices also benefits organizations by building trust with customers and strengthening brand loyalty. For instance, transparent requests for consent and clear explanations of how data is used are key to fostering customer confidence in your organization.
Moreover, adherence to data privacy regulations helps companies avoid costly fines and legal consequences from breaches. It also allows them to navigate diverse regulatory landscapes across geographies and engage with customers globally without having to worry about local legal requirements.
With the average organization today collecting massive amounts of consumer data, it’s important that they protect consumers’ privacy as a matter of compliance, security posture and competitive advantage. The good news is that there are plenty of tools and resources available to help them do just that.
About the Author
