Businesses That Collect Your Personal Information Can Put You at Risk

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Recently, Brett ran across a website that was collecting personal information from job applicants hoping to fill vacancies. Most of the information you would expect to provide… full name, date of birth, and contact information. But then, a request for information set off an alarm… they asked for a Canadian social insurance number. 

That is an incredibly valuable piece of information, so it’s imperative to know that it’s protected. But, guess what? The hiring firm wasn’t using a protected means for gathering information. They were collecting the personal information on a Google Form! Not a protected form from Google Workspaces, one that can be created by any individual Google user. 

Of course, Brett’s cyber senses went into high gear, and he thought… What if the hiring company wasn’t using 2-factor authentication? A hacker could easily gain access to the information on an unprotected Google form, which could affect countless applicants!

As a business, it’s your responsibility to think about how you are collecting and protecting the personal information of everyone in your database. There are countless apps out there that are designed to safeguard the information collection process, so there’s no reason for this kind of liability risk. Especially for a company that employs over 100 people.  

And as individuals, we really need to take pause every single time we’re asked to provide our personal information. In this case, the form the applicants were asked to fill in looked like one that most people would assume was protected. But, if something seems off – like being asked to provide a Social Insurance Number before you’re even hired – don’t risk it. 

Also, look at the details of the form. Does it explicitly say that it is protected? If so, how and by who? Is it a reputable data protection software provider? 

In this case, it clearly said “Google Form,” at the top. And most people trust Google, right? Yes… as a search engine, NOT as a privacy provider. Don’t store your passwords or credit card information there. That’s what password protection software is for. It’s just as convenient and 1000 times safer.   

Let’s take a broader look at this topic, but in the meantime, NEVER, EVER, send sensitive information via email. Not about yourself, your family, your business, your kids, or your whereabouts. And make sure your social media accounts don’t reveal sensitive information either. 

Okay, let’s get a bird’s eye view of this topic to understand the bigger threats that businesses can pose when collecting your personal information…

In an increasingly digital world, the collection and utilization of personal information by businesses have become an integral part of daily life. From online shopping to social media interactions, organizations gather vast amounts of data to tailor services, enhance user experiences, and target marketing efforts. However, this convenience comes at a cost, as the accumulation of personal information raises concerns about individual privacy and security.

The practice of businesses collecting personal information has raised significant debates surrounding the potential risks and benefits. On one hand, personalized recommendations, targeted advertisements, and streamlined online experiences have transformed how we interact with products and services. On the other hand, this practice has also ushered in a new era of privacy vulnerabilities, leaving individuals exposed to a range of threats, from data breaches to identity theft.

Let’s explore the various types of data that companies gather, the purposes behind this collection, and the potential consequences for individuals. From examining the vulnerabilities inherent in storing sensitive data to evaluating the measures in place to safeguard privacy, we will navigate the intricate balance between innovation and the protection of personal information.

By understanding the potential pitfalls and learning about strategies to mitigate these risks, individuals can make more informed choices about the digital footprint they leave behind. In an era where data has become a valuable currency, it’s essential to navigate this landscape with awareness and vigilance to safeguard our personal information.

The sheer volume of personal data generated and collected is staggering. Businesses today harness this data to gain insights into consumer behavior, refine their marketing strategies, and tailor products and services to meet individual preferences. 

The types of personal data gathered are diverse and multifaceted, ranging from basic contact details to intricate behavioral patterns. Here, we delve into the various (and slightly creepy)  categories of personal data that companies commonly collect:

  • Identity Information: This includes names, addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses. This data is often collected during account creation, subscription sign-ups, or purchase transactions. While relatively innocuous on its own, this information can become potent when combined with other data points.
  • Demographic Information: Businesses often seek information about age, gender, ethnicity, and other demographic details to segment their customer base and tailor their marketing efforts accordingly.
  • Behavioral Data: Tracking online behavior provides businesses with insights into consumer preferences, browsing habits, and purchase history. This data helps them refine their product offerings and marketing strategies.
  • Location Data: With the prevalence of mobile devices, businesses can track users’ physical locations. This information can enable geographically targeted advertisements and enhance location-based services.
  • Financial Information: Payment details, credit card information, and transaction history are collected primarily for facilitating purchases and financial transactions.
  • Social Media Activity: Many businesses leverage social media data to understand consumer sentiment, track brand mentions, and identify influencers who can help promote their products or services.
  • Health and Biometric Data: In some cases, businesses in the healthcare, fitness, and wellness sectors may collect health-related data and biometric information. This data can be sensitive and require stringent security measures.

Purposes Behind Data Collection

The collection of personal data serves several crucial purposes for businesses:

  • Personalization: Companies use data to offer personalized experiences, product recommendations, and targeted advertisements, which can enhance user engagement and satisfaction.
  • Improving Services: Data analysis allows businesses to identify pain points in their services and products, leading to iterative improvements.
  • Marketing and Advertising: Personal data aids in creating more effective marketing campaigns by tailoring content to specific user preferences and behaviors.
  • Analytics and Insights: Data-driven insights empower companies to make informed decisions, optimize operations, and develop future strategies.

Potential Consequences for Individuals

While the collection of personal data can bring convenience and improved experiences, it also introduces potential risks and consequences:

  • Privacy Concerns: Excessive data collection can erode personal privacy, leading to fears of surveillance and unauthorized access to sensitive information.
  • Data Breaches: Storing large volumes of personal data makes businesses susceptible to data breaches. These breaches can expose personal information, leading to identity theft and financial fraud.
  • Targeted Manipulation: Personalized advertisements and content can be used to manipulate consumer behavior or spread disinformation.
  • Misuse of Data: Companies might share or sell personal data to third parties without explicit consent, leading to unwanted solicitations and privacy violations.
  • Discrimination: Data-driven decision-making may inadvertently perpetuate biases, leading to discrimination in areas such as lending or employment.
  • Regulatory Issues: The collection and storage of personal data are subject to various laws and regulations. Non-compliance can result in legal repercussions.

The landscape of businesses collecting personal data is intricate, offering benefits and posing risks. As individuals, understanding the types of data collected, the intentions behind it, and the potential consequences empowers us to make informed choices about the information we share and the measures we take to protect our privacy and security in an increasingly data-driven world.

How Do Businesses Collect Your Data?

In excerpts from an article by BusinessNewsDaily.com, they wrote, “Companies are using a cornucopia of collection methods and sources to capture and process customer data on metrics, with interest in types of data ranging from demographic data to behavioral data, said Liam Hanham, data science manager at Workday.

“Customer data can be collected in three ways: by directly asking customers, by indirectly tracking customers, and by appending other sources of customer data to your own,” said Hanham. “A robust business strategy needs all three.”

Businesses are adept at pulling in all types of data from nearly every nook and cranny. The most obvious places are from consumer activity on their websites and social media pages or through customer phone calls and live chats, but there are more interesting methods at work as well. 

One example is location-based advertising, which uses tracking technologies such as an internet-connected device’s IP address (and the other devices it interacts with – your laptop may interact with your mobile device, and vice versa) to build a personalized data profile. This information is then used to target users’ devices with hyper-personalized, relevant advertising.

Companies also dig deep into their customer service records to see how customers have interacted with sales and support departments in the past. Here, they are incorporating direct feedback about what worked and what didn’t, what a customer liked and disliked, on a grand scale.

Besides collecting information for business purposes, companies that sell personal information and other data to third-party sources have become commonplace. Once captured, this information regularly changes hands in a data marketplace of its own.

Data privacy regulations are changing the way businesses capture, store, share, and analyze consumer data. Businesses that are so far untouched by data privacy regulations can expect a greater legal obligation to protect consumers’ data as more consumers demand privacy rights. Data collection by private companies, though, is unlikely to go away; it will merely change in form as businesses adapt to new laws and regulations.”

How to Spot Suspicious Information Gathering

Recognizing suspicious personal information-gathering techniques is crucial in safeguarding your privacy and security. Here are some pointers to help you identify potentially concerning practices… 

  • Unnecessary Information Requests: Be wary if a company or website requests excessive personal information that seems irrelevant to the service they are providing. For instance, a shopping website asking for your Social Security number when making a purchase is a red flag.
  • Overly Intrusive Questions: If an app or platform asks overly personal or intrusive questions that don’t seem relevant to its purpose, it could indicate a potential data mining operation. Exercise caution when sharing sensitive details.
  • Lack of Privacy Policy: Legitimate companies typically have a clear and accessible privacy policy that outlines how they collect, use, and protect your data. If you can’t find a privacy policy or it’s vague, it’s a sign of potential risk.
  • Insecure Communication: If a website or app asks you to share sensitive information through an insecure channel (e.g., email or unencrypted forms), it’s a red flag. Legitimate platforms prioritize secure communication methods.
  • Too Good to Be True Offers: If a business offers incredible deals or services in exchange for an unusually high amount of personal information, it’s wise to be skeptical. Scammers often use enticing offers to gather data.
  • Unexpected Requests for Personal Data: If you receive unsolicited emails or messages asking for personal information, regardless of how official they may seem, treat them with suspicion. Legitimate organizations don’t typically request sensitive data via email.
  • Aggressive Data Collection during Sign-Up: If a website requires you to provide extensive personal information during the initial sign-up process, it’s worth questioning whether all that data is truly necessary.
  • Vague Identity or Contact Information: If a company’s website lacks clear contact details or doesn’t provide information about its identity, it’s a sign of potential shady practices.
  • Unsecured Website: Look for the padlock icon in your browser’s address bar, indicating a secure connection (HTTPS). If a website handles personal information but lacks this security measure, your data might be at risk.
  • Third-Party Data Sharing: Be cautious when a company asks for permission to access your social media or email contacts. They might use this permission to collect more data than you intended to share.
  • Unexplained Data Usage: If you notice targeted ads or emails that seem to know too much about you, it might be an indication that your data is being shared or sold without your consent.
  • Negative Reviews or Reports: Research the company online and check for user reviews or news articles about their data practices. Negative reports or reviews can provide insights into their track record.

In an era where personal data is increasingly valuable, staying vigilant and discerning is essential. Remember that legitimate businesses prioritize transparency, security, and informed consent when collecting your personal information. If something feels off or too intrusive, trust your instincts and consider seeking alternatives or taking extra precautions.

How can you protect your data?

Protecting personal data and privacy in the digital age requires a combination of awareness, vigilance, and proactive measures. Here’s a comprehensive list of actions individuals can take to safeguard their personal information:

  • Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Use complex passwords for different accounts and avoid using easily guessable information like birthdays or names.
  • Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Activate 2FA whenever possible to add an extra layer of security to your accounts.
  • Regularly Update Software: Keep your operating systems, applications, and antivirus software up to date to patch potential vulnerabilities.
  • Be Cautious with Personal Information Sharing: Share only necessary information on social media and public platforms.
  • Be cautious about sharing sensitive data over email, messages, or unsecured websites.
  • Monitor Privacy Settings: Review and adjust privacy settings on social media, apps, and devices to control what information is accessible.
  • Limit the visibility of personal information to only trusted connections.
  • Use Secure Wi-Fi Networks: Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks for sensitive activities like online banking or shopping.
  • Regularly Review Account Activity: Monitor your financial and online accounts for any unauthorized or suspicious activities.
  • Use Encryption Tools: Utilize encryption tools for sensitive communications, such as end-to-end encrypted messaging apps.
  • Be Skeptical of Requests: Verify the legitimacy of requests for personal information, especially if they come via email or phone.
  • Regularly Check Credit Reports: Monitor your credit reports for any unusual or unauthorized activities.
  • Use Virtual Private Networks (VPNs): Use VPNs to encrypt your internet connection and mask your IP address, enhancing online privacy.
  • Avoid Clicking on Suspicious Links: Be cautious of clicking on links in emails or messages, especially if they’re from unknown sources.
  • Educate Yourself: Stay informed about the latest scams, phishing techniques, and data breaches to recognize potential threats.
  • Use Private Browsing Modes: Utilize private or incognito browsing modes to prevent websites from tracking your browsing history.
  • Limit App Permissions: Review and limit the permissions granted to apps on your devices. Only grant necessary access.
  • Regularly Back Up Data: Keep backups of your important data on secure external devices or cloud storage.
  • Use Password Managers: Employ password managers to generate and securely store complex passwords.
  • Opt-Out of Data Collection: Whenever possible, opt-out of data collection and sharing with third parties.
  • Secure Your Devices: Set up strong passwords or biometric authentication on your devices to prevent unauthorized access.
  • Read Privacy Policies: Understand the privacy policies of apps and websites you use to know how your data is collected, used, and shared.
  • Use Disposable Email Addresses: For signing up on websites, consider using disposable email addresses to reduce spam and potential data exposure.
  • Be Wary of Phishing Emails: Be cautious of emails asking for personal information or urging you to click on links.
  • Protect Physical Documents: Store physical documents with personal information in a secure location, and shred documents you no longer need.
  • Regularly Log Out: Log out of your accounts when you’re done using them, especially on shared computers or devices.
  • Be Careful with IoT Devices: Secure Internet of Things (IoT) devices with strong passwords and keep their firmware updated.

By implementing these practices, individuals can significantly enhance their personal data and privacy protection, reducing the risk of falling victim to various online threats.

Conclusion

The increasing digitization of personal information has ushered in a new era of convenience and connectivity, but it has also brought forth risks and vulnerabilities that individuals must navigate. The story of Brett encountering a questionable data collection practice serves as a reminder that businesses can unwittingly put individuals at risk when they collect and mishandle personal information.

For businesses, it is imperative to uphold ethical data collection practices. Safeguarding the information entrusted to them should be a top priority. Utilizing secure platforms, employing encryption techniques, and adhering to data protection regulations are crucial steps to prevent data breaches and ensure the security of customer information.

As individuals, the responsibility to protect personal data rests in our hands. By adopting a proactive approach and following best practices, we can significantly reduce the likelihood of falling victim to data breaches, scams, and privacy violations. Being cautious about sharing sensitive information, regularly reviewing privacy settings, and staying informed about emerging threats are key strategies in maintaining our online security.

The intricate dance between businesses collecting personal information and individuals safeguarding their privacy requires a delicate balance. By fostering a culture of transparency, accountability, and education, we can collectively navigate this landscape, reaping the benefits of modern technology while minimizing its potential downsides. In an era where personal data has become a digital currency, our collective efforts to protect it are paramount.

At Adaptive Office Solutions, cybersecurity is our specialty. We keep cybercrimes at bay by using analysis, forensics, and reverse engineering to prevent malware attempts and patch vulnerability issues. By making an investment in multilayered cybersecurity, you can leverage our expertise to boost your defenses, mitigate risks, and protect your data with next-gen IT security solutions.

Every single device that connects to the internet poses a cyber security threat, including that innocent-looking smartwatch you’re wearing. Adaptive’s wide range of experience and certifications fills the gaps in your business’s IT infrastructure and dramatically increases the effectiveness of your cybersecurity posture.

Using our proactive cybersecurity management, cutting-edge network security tools, and comprehensive business IT solutions, you can lower your costs through systems that are running at their prime, creating greater efficiency and preventing data loss and costly downtime. With Adaptive Office Solutions by your side, we’ll help you navigate the complexities of cybersecurity so you can achieve business success without worrying about online threats.

To schedule a Cyber Security Risk Review, call the Adaptive Office Solutions’ hotline at 506-624-9480 or email us at helpdesk@adaptiveoffice.ca

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