What is Personal Data?

Personal data refers to any information that can identify a person, either directly or indirectly. Examples include:

Contact information: emails, phone numbers, home address.
Location data: GPS tracking, check-ins, or places frequently visited.
Images and videos: photos shared online, biometric data like facial recognition.
Digital footprints: browsing history, search queries, cookies, and social media activity.
Identifiers: usernames, IP addresses, ID numbers.

Essentially, if the information can be traced back to you, it qualifies as personal data.

Why Protect Sensitive Information?

Security: Prevents identity theft, fraud, and cyberattacks.
Privacy: Maintains control over who sees your personal life and habits.
Reputation: Protects against misuse of photos, posts, or statements that could damage credibility.
Safety: Especially important for children and vulnerable individuals, reducing risks like cyberbullying or stalking.
Trust: Organizations that safeguard data maintain credibility with clients, employees, and the public.

Practical Steps to Protect Your Data

1.Adjust Privacy Settings:

2.Control App Permissions:

Only grant apps access to data they truly need (e.g., why should a game need your contacts?).
Regularly check phone settings to revoke unnecessary permissions.

3.Use Strong Security Practices:

4.Back Up Data Securely:

5.Be Cautious with Public Wi-Fi:

6.Think Before Sharing:

M6:S3 - Data Protection and Privacy

Cybersecurity Basics