Data Privacy Day (Jan. 28) is a wonderful opportunity to reinforce best practices for information security awareness both in the workplace and at home. Terranova encourages security professionals to take advantage of this fitting moment to engage end users in meaningful conversations about the safe-handling of sensitive data and the rights and responsibilities of each employee in upholding privacy. Every member of your organization has a role to play in sustaining a high standard for data privacy. Terranova offers three conversation-starters that will contextualize data privacy for your end users, and ultimately add value to your overall security awareness campaign.
- Explain the what and why of Data Privacy Day.
What is Data Privacy Day? Why do we observe it? Terranova suggests contextualizing Data Privacy Day by providing meaningful background information. Did you know that since 2008, Data Privacy Day has been observed in the United States and in Canada, in efforts to promote best practices for protecting personal data. In a recent press release, the National Cyber Security Alliance emphasises that organizations are responsible for educating and discussing with their employees on the implications of obtaining and working with clients’ personal information. Be transparent. Present your organization’s role within the sphere of general privacy and show the ways it maintains accountability regarding security awareness best practices.
- Let employees understand the value of their own information.
This is key. Make Data Privacy Day about your end users. In doing so, you will achieve greater results in terms of audience receptivity and understanding. Employees will also appreciate to learn that best practices for data privacy can translate from work to home.
- Talking privacy is smart for business.
Let employees know that their role within the organization is important and valued. Success in data privacy depends on everyone’s contribution. An effective campaign for privacy awareness requires that all members of a business pitch-in. Titles do not matter. Organizations that celebrate a more inclusive security culture tend to benefit from great coherence in terms of privacy expectations as all employees have been educated on the same best practices and understand the implications of their actions when it comes to data privacy.
Information privacy has a direct impact on your business. It affects the organization’s level of competitiveness, its reputation within the industry, and client appreciation. Educating end users to be privacy-savvy is invaluable to your overall business culture.
