How to Protect Consumer Data Privacy

The internet brought about a new set of concerns about privacy and protecting one’s identity and assets. Consumer privacy is a massive concern, and individuals and businesses need to know what they can do to boost their defenses and keep data safe. In addition, companies and internet service providers must know how to protect consumer rights to data privacy because the civil penalties for failing to do so can be disastrous.

For more information on consumer privacy, be sure to check out our articles covering topics like how to register for the Data Protection Act or how to enable cookies on your computer. We also have a great explainer article covering what data security and privacy are.

How to Protect Consumer Data Privacy

The internet is essential to modern business. But as consumers become privy to the dangers of handing over their data, every organization must understand how to safely handle the data of their clients and customers.

Data is a powerful resource and an immense responsibility. And now, with legislation like California Consumer Privacy Act giving consumers rights to how their data is handled, the stakes are higher than ever. Therefore, businesses must act accordingly.

Thankfully, there are many clear steps and privacy policies businesses can take to fortify their defenses and reduce the risk of data breaches and mishandling.

Not only is there potential for legal repercussions for mishandling privacy protection, but there is also a risk of a business losing the trust of its consumer base and potential customers. This unfortunate reality makes the following tips even more crucial when setting up your business for success.

Don’t Collect Needless Data

It’s the first rule of dealing with data: only take what you need. The best way to increase data privacy risks is to have extra data and not realize it. When you have specific data that isn’t useful, it’s harder to pay attention to and protect. This leaves it more susceptible to hackers.

Additionally, tailoring your data to meet the needs only of your business makes it less attractive to hackers. So, if you can leave out collecting sensitive information like emails, home addresses, social security numbers, etc., you are taking a massive leap toward protecting your customers.

Incorporate Security Tools

Although cybercrime shows no sign of stopping, plenty of solutions exist to combat it.

Implementing a password management tool across all accounts is a great way to guard the access point. These tools take all passwords and store them in an encrypted file, making it almost impossible for them to be hacked. And although it may sound simple, it’s also vital to use strong passwords as much as possible.

Store Data in One Place

Having data spread across many different storage spaces is a grave mistake. Data is best stored in one secure area because it’s easier to manage, track, analyze, and optimize. As soon as you start segmenting, it can quickly become unruly and unmanageable, increasing the likelihood for it to be stolen.