Do You Know the Difference Between Data Privacy and Data Security?

The terms security and privacy are often used interchangeably within the data and cloud ecosystem. While there is overlap, the differences can be costly.

Data Security is the protection of data from unwanted actions by unauthorized users. An example of data security is encryption, which converts the information into an alternative text so only authorized users with a specific “key” can access the original information.

Data Privacy, on the other hand, is a term used more commonly with the use and misuse of personal or sensitive data. It is a branch of data security that manages the consent and regulatory obligation of data, especially with 3^rd parties.

As we learned in our blog GDPR Fines Rise 39% in One Year, Even with COVID19, General Data Protection Regulation impacts data within the European Union and is considered a set of data protection and privacy laws. Similar within the US is CCPA, or California Consumer Privacy Act. This law secures rights for consumers doing business with California. As explained within California Legislative Information on behalf of Attorney General Becerra, CCPA enables California consumers to disclose what personal information they have about you, what they do with that information, to delete your personal information and not sell your information.

While data privacy and security are key, having a good grasp on your entire data strategy can put you in a position to thrive (and not face penalties). Get started with CCG’s Assessment Vision and Roadmap solution which evaluates governance (including data security and privacy), technology (including cloud security), automation, culture, organizational model, and strategy. Get started with a data and analytics strategy consultant here.

Written by CCG, an organization in Tampa, Florida, that helps companies become more insights-driven, solve complex challenges and accelerate growth through industry-specific data and analytics solutions.