Data Privacy Day 2020

Today is Data Privacy Day! 

In our increasingly tech-driven world, it is more important than ever to be educated on the safe practices of data privacy and safety. By becoming #PrivacyAware, we can better manage our personal data online and protect our right to privacy. 

Why is Data Privacy Important? 

We conduct a lot of our lives online, yet few of us understand how our information is being used, collected, and shared. Our data can be used in both beneficial and harmful ways. Information that you share about yourself online - even seemingly innocuous information like your favorite restaurants - can be used to make inferences about you, including your socioeconomic status, preferences, and more. Many companies monitor and sell their users' personal data for profit. In order to understand the true value of data, consumers need to understand how it is collected, used, and shared. Data Privacy Day aims to increase awareness about the many ways our personal information is collected, stored, used, and shared. The goal is to educate and empower people to protect their personal information and privacy online.   

Data Protection & Privacy Laws

Many States across the U.S. are taking action to protect their citizens' data privacy. California recently passed a Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) which gives consumers in California a right to know what personal information a company has about them,  and a right to forbid companies from selling their information to third parties.  You may have noticed that your favorite websites have recently updated their privacy policies - that's because the CCPA took effect on January 1.

As Chairman of the Consumer Protection Committee, I believe that we deserve the same comprehensive data privacy protections here in New York. That is why I introduced the groundbreaking New York Privacy Act, which aims to protect our right to privacy by requiring companies to attain explicit consent from you before they share or sell your information. 

Learn How to Protect Your Data Privacy

As New York State navigates toward better data privacy regulations, there are many steps you and your family can take to protect your privacy online. Here are some tips and resources to help you become #PrivacyAware: 

Stay Safe Online - Data Privacy Day

1. Update Your Privacy Settings. Click here to learn how to update your Privacy Settings on popular devices and online services. 
2. Share with Care. Be aware that when you post a picture or message, you may be inadvertantly sharing personal details and sensitive data with strangers. 
3. Lock Down Your Login. Create long and unique passwords for all counts and use multi-factor authentication whenever possible. This additional layer of security makes it harder for hackers to get into your accounts.