Are you protecting your data?

In our world of constant connection, its become easier for people to regard their data is disposable. Many of us pass our information to one business or another on a whim, not knowing how that data will be used or manipulated. We see data collection in many forms: sign up & subscrition forms, commerce checkout pages, app downloads, and many more.

Data Privacy Day is the annual effort to promote awareness of and educate people on the importance and value of their data, and how they can better protect themselves and their personal information.

Here are a few steps you can take to better protect your information:

1. Always keep an eye on your bank and transaction information. Many banking institutions have systems setup for you to immediately report suspicious activity.
2. Don't write down passwords or keep them in an unsecure file. Use a password manager like Last Pass.
3. Any third party who requests personal information via email, text or voice call is not to be trusted. Keep your information to yourself.
4. Anytime you get a new device or sign up for a new service such as social media, take time to read through the privacy settings and set them accordingly. Never trust the defaults!
5. Always keep your software, operating systems and devices up to date. Updates patch vulnerabilities, they're extremely important!
6. Learn password best practices to keep your accounts safe. Your password is your only safeguard in most instances, unless you have MFA setup (highly recommended), so keep it long and strong. We recommend a minimum of 8 - 12 characters. Anything less is a recipe for disaster.

The saying goes, "Treat your data like it's money. It's valuable and should be protected."

If you can follow these few, simple steps you'll be well on your way to protecting yourself, your money, and your information.