What We Learned from Data Privacy Day

As risks to data privacy are on the rise, new tools for virtual security are created every day. Cyber security experts advise Internet users to take steps to protect their computer files and online data by learning more about the newest cyber security threats. People falsely believe that simple measures like deleting files can prevent cyber thieves from compromising their data. Experts note that deleting files and emptying recycle bins on devices are not enough to keep data thieves at bay. Computer users must completely eliminate or reformat their files.

The Annual Data Privacy Day: Lessons Learned

People who do not know a lot about computers or mobile technology are often not aware of how to keep their data safe online. They believe a simple measure like moving a file to the recycle bin is all it takes to remove it from their computer. However, computer experts warn newbies that these steps are not enough to get rid of the data entirely. Even after the recycle bin is emptied, the files can still be found and restored.

So, users should invest in software that can completely eliminate files and information from their computers instead. Even simple reformatting may not be enough to get rid of the data completely. Users must pair their computers with devices equipped with the special software. The software can then safely delete the marked files and ensure that they cannot be recovered.

As noted, most inexperienced computer users have no idea of the lengths they must go to when it comes to protecting their virtual information.

Data Privacy Day, held on January 28 every year, aims to educate the public about cyber security risks. Web search engines like Google and Bing joined forces to make these lessons available to anyone who wants to learn more about identity theft, hacking, and other virtual threats. The lessons also come in handy for smartphone users. Many smartphone owners do not realize that their devices can be compromised and their information stolen.

The Newest Data Privacy Risks

So exactly what are the newest risks to your data privacy? You might be aware of some of the older threats like phishing emails or other email scams. You can avoid these threats by deleting the emails or by refusing to click on suspicious email links. The newest threats go beyond simple email links, chain letters, and other widely publicized hacking attempts. According to privacy advocates, government agencies and federal regulations now represent the biggest challenge to keeping your data safe and off limits.

Privacy advocates and governmental entities continue to square off both in courtrooms and public forums about what data agencies like the NSA, FBI, and other organizations should have access to. This question was on everyone’s lips after the San Bernadino shooting when the FBI forced Apple to release one of the shooters’ iPhone files. Apple refused the FBI’s request, leading to a courtroom battle whose ultimate victor was Apple.

This battle was just one facet of the ongoing war between privacy advocates and global governments. The question about what degree of privacy computer and smartphone users like you are entitled to remains hotly debated and yet for the most part unanswered.

It is easy to believe that your computer files and online information are safe. It is also tempting to think that removing files from your computer is as simple as emptying the recycle bin. Cyber security experts point out that these files can be recovered without much effort. Removing data safely requires the use of special software. However, protecting private files can be even more difficult if a government agency like the FBI lays claim to them.
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