Safeguarding your personally identifiable information (PII) is more critical than ever. PII includes any data that can identify you, ranging from your name and address to sensitive details like your Social Security number and bank account information. While some PII may seem harmless, such as your zip code or race, malicious actors can piece together even non-sensitive details to cause harm.

 

Why Metadata Matters:

Did you know the photos you share online could reveal your location? Many smartphones embed GPS coordinates into photo metadata if location services are enabled. These coordinates can inadvertently disclose your home address or frequent locations.

 

To protect yourself:

• On iPhones: Go to Settings > Privacy and Security > Location Services > Camera and select Never.

• On Android: Turn off Save Location in the camera settings.

 

Stripping metadata before posting photos online is a smart practice to avoid revealing your whereabouts.

 

The Risks of Oversharing Online:

Social media platforms like Facebook are treasure troves for cybercriminals. Public posts, especially those revealing details like pet names or your mother’s maiden name, can be exploited for password recovery or security question guessing.

 

Here’s how to stay safe:

• Set your posts to Private or Friends Only unless you intend to share them publicly.

• Review your privacy settings regularly to ensure they align with your sharing preferences.

 

Businesses and Your Data

When sharing PII with businesses, ask yourself:

1. Is the website secure? Look for HTTPS and SSL encryption.

2. What data is necessary? Companies often collect excessive information—challenge whether providing it is essential.

3. Is the data protected? Ensure businesses are storing your information securely and responsibly.

 

Take Action to Stay Secure

• Turn off location services when not in use.

• Freeze your credit to prevent unauthorized accounts.

• Use password managers to store random answers to security questions.

• Question why businesses request specific PII and how they protect it.

 

In an age where digital footprints are permanent, every precaution matters. As we continue to share online, being mindful of privacy risks can prevent issues like stalking, doxing, or identity theft.