Privacy: Unlock its power to build a safer, more empowered digital future
In today’s world, every time we use the internet, we leave behind a trace of our personal information. It’s important to keep this digital footprint safe. The line between our real and online lives is getting blurry, and we need to figure out how to stay safe in this connected world while keeping our information private.
The digital age has given us lots of great things, like easy communication and access to information. But it also means our details, like who we are, what we like, and where we are, are out there in the digital space. This makes privacy more complicated.
Now, it’s up to all of us to protect our privacy. We need to be careful online, have rules and regulations in place, and use technology to keep our info safe. It’s a team effort to make sure our data stays private in this interconnected world.
Taking this notion further, Prof (Dr) Surabhi Pandey, Asst. Professor (IT & e-Governance), IIPA, said, “Privacy is not merely an option; it’s a fundamental right. With the Data Protection Act, consumers now have the authority to access their data. Anticipating vulnerabilities and taking prompt corrective actions is crucial to fortify against potential breaches.”
Adding to Pandey’s statement, Captain Keshav Prasad, VP of Business Development, at Rakshak Securities said, “The sensitivity towards sharing data is still not prevalent, especially among less educated groups. Often, basic security measures are overlooked, leading to potential compromises made in good faith.”
He further added, “In our hurried lives, we often overlook basic security norms. Lack of awareness and haste can inadvertently lead to data leaks. Building trust and ensuring secure data exchange between users and service providers is paramount.”
Captain Gaurav Bajetha, Vice President, of Urban Company illuminated the delicate balance between ensuring safety ratings for service partners and preventing direct contact between customers and partners when asked about the operational challenges faced by Urban Company. He said, “Creating a protective screen between service partners and customers is critical for maintaining safety ratings and preventing disintermediation. Encryption and masking techniques are employed to ensure the privacy of consumer data.”
Adding further, Captain AA Collaco, Head Administration & Facilities, Insurance Dekho delving into data privacy structures, stressed the role of shared responsibility between users and service providers. “It’s a collective responsibility. Authenticate your data, understand the authority using it, and exercise caution in sharing information to safeguard your rights,” he added.
As the discussion unfolded, Dr. Surbhi Pandey capped off the session with essential safety tips. “Use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication, limit data on public storage, and stay abreast of cyber threats through resources like Cyber Dost,” she advised, providing practical takeaways for individuals navigating the digital realm securely.
These expert insights form a guiding beacon for individuals traversing the online landscape. Their collective wisdom underlined the critical importance of user awareness, regulatory compliance, and technological advancements in ensuring the safety of personal data in an interconnected world as a part of a discussion that took place at the BW Security World 40 under 40 Awards-1st edition, emphasising the commitment to data security in the professional landscape.
Written by: Arya Rakshita

