While the two terms are often used interchangeably, there is a distinct difference between data privacy and cybersecurity. Today, the experts at ITC differentiate and explain why both are equally important.
Data Privacy
One of the most important things you can do to keep your system secure is to prioritize data privacy. The focus of data privacy is to protect personal data from unauthorized access, disclosure, alteration, or use. Data privacy is primarily concerned with the rights of the individuals whose information you maintain dominion over and their rights to this personal information.
Data privacy is governed by specific laws, such as HIPAA. These clearly outline the specific recommendations and requirements for data handling and protection. This is sometimes based on industry.
Ensuring that your customers’ credit card numbers are not accessed or shared without their authorization is an example of data privacy. How you make this happen may fall under the realm of cybersecurity.
Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity consists of the steps you take to protect your computer systems, networks, and data from disruption, destruction, modification, or unauthorized access. It encompasses a broad range of threats, not just privacy. Cybersecurity also addresses malware, denial of service attacks, hacking, spoofing, and phishing.
Your cybersecurity measures likely are not always specifically addressed by law. There are, however, standards depending on your industry. Ultimately, your online security measures are established by you and your IT team to keep your systems and data safe.
Firewalls, strong password policies, and the steps you take to prevent data breaches are examples of cybersecurity methods.
Working Together
As you can see, cybersecurity and data privacy go hand-in-hand. Data privacy simply falls under the scope of cybersecurity, but it is just one distinct aspect of what your digital security strategies should cover.
By prioritizing both cybersecurity and data privacy, you will help to maintain your reputation, comply with industry and legal regulations, and mitigate your financial risks. Ultimately, keeping both at the forefront of your IT endeavors will keep you favorable to the public and garner your reputation as a company that cares about its customers and its employee’s personal information.
For more information about data privacy and cybersecurity, contact ITC today.
