The Importance of Data Privacy and Integrity

Data privacy and integrity are essential for any organization that collects, stores, or processes personal information. The purpose of data privacy training and data integrity practices are for organizational success and governmental compliance.

Although we will focus particularly on three of the industries that we work with at Baseline Innovations, the following are good, universal principles and recommendations.

Examples of Data Privacy and Integrity Gone Wrong

Technology

Technology companies collect a vast amount of data about their users, including their browsing habits, purchase history, and location information. This data is used to improve products and services, but it can also be used for targeted advertising and other purposes.

In recent years, there have been a number of high-profile data breaches at technology companies.¹ These breaches have exposed the personal information of millions of people, putting them at risk of identity theft and other forms of fraud.

Nonprofit

Nonprofit organizations collect personal information from donors, volunteers, and program participants. This data is used to develop and improve programs, solicit donations, and communicate with supporters.

Nonprofit organizations are also vulnerable to data breaches. In 2021, the American Red Cross experienced a data breach that exposed the personal information of over 500,000 people.²

Higher education

Higher education institutions collect personal information from students, faculty, and staff. This data is used for academic purposes, such as admissions, enrollment, and grading. It is also used for administrative purposes, such as financial aid and payroll.

Higher education institutions are also vulnerable to data breaches. According to a 2023 report from IBM, the average cost of a data breach reached $3.9 million in the higher education sector.³

Data Privacy and Integrity Best Practices

Data privacy and integrity are important for a number of reasons. First, they protect individuals from the harm that can result from the exposure of their personal information. Second, they build trust between organizations and the individuals who share their data. Third, they promote compliance with laws and regulations.⁴

Organizations can take a number of steps to protect data privacy and integrity, including:

• Implementing strong security measures to protect data from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction.
• Developing and implementing data privacy policies and procedures that are consistent with applicable laws and regulations.
• Training employees on data privacy and security best practices.
• Regularly reviewing and updating data privacy and security measures.
• Be transparent about how you are collecting and using user data. Give users control over their data, such as the ability to opt out of targeted advertising.

By taking these steps, organizations can protect the privacy and integrity of the data they collect, store, and process. Baseline Innovations offers a wide variety of services to assist your organization with their data privacy and integrity, especially as it relates to your CRM, LMS, and website systems. Contact us to learn more about the opportunities and rates.