Column: PIPA & The Use Of Your Data

[Written by the TLC Group]

Imagine your personal information – from your online shopping habits to your health records – scattered across the internet like fallen trees after a strong hurricane. That’s the reality for many of us today, with our data collected, stored, and even sold by countless organizations. But the tide is turning, thanks to a wave of new data protection laws sweeping across the globe.

And here in Bermuda, we are getting ready to rise with the data protection tide as the Personal Information Protection Act [PIPA] will start being enforced from 1 January 2025. But across the pond, organizations in the UK and Europe have been grappling with the General Data Protection Regulation [GDPR] since 2018. And let’s just say, it’s been a shake-up!

Imagine this: a small Bermudian company used to collect email addresses from website visitors without their explicit consent. Under the GDPR, this wouldn’t fly anymore. They’d need to clearly explain how they’ll use the data, get explicit consent, and offer an easy way for people to unsubscribe. Seems simple, right? But for many organizations, it meant major changes to their websites, marketing practices, and even internal procedures.

The impact goes beyond just email addresses. Under PIPA, Bermuda based organizations now face stricter rules on data storage, security, and transparency. They must also appoint a Privacy Representative and demonstrate compliance. And if they don’t play by the rules, penalties may include fines, imprisonment, or both!

But here’s the good news: these regulations aren’t just about punishment. They’re about putting you, the individual, in control of your data. You have the right to know what information is collected about you, why it’s being used, and how it’s protected. You can also request to have your data deleted or corrected.

Still wondering how this affects you?

• Imagine you apply for a job and the company asks for your social media handles. Under new data protection laws, they might need a legitimate reason for doing so.
• You receive targeted ads online that feel eerily specific. These laws could give you more control over how your data is used for advertising.
• You worry about a company losing your personal information in a data breach. New regulations require them to notify you quickly if the incident will result in a high risk to you.

This is just a glimpse into the world of data protection. We encourage you to delve deeper! If you have specific questions, feel free to reach out to us via email solutions@thetlcgroup.pro.

Remember, your data is valuable. By understanding your rights and the changes happening globally, you can take control of your digital privacy and navigate the new world of data with confidence.

So, what do you think? Are you ready to join the data protection revolution? Let us know in the comments below.

#OpinionColumns #PIPADraftModel

Category: All, technology