Data breaches can spell disaster for any company, impacting not just the organization itself but also its clients. The type of data stolen can range from relatively harmless information to highly sensitive personal details. A breach in information security in Maryland can lead to significant financial costs and tarnish a company’s reputation.

While data breaches and their fallout often make headlines, many people don’t fully grasp the key concepts related to cybersecurity, particularly the difference between data privacy and protection.

Let’s break down the distinction between data privacy and data protection, as well as the importance of having both.

• One Doesn’t Ensure the Other
  Data protection focuses on safeguarding assets from unauthorized use, while data privacy defines who has authorized access. Think of data protection as a technical safeguard and data privacy as a set of processes or legal requirements. Both are crucial, but one doesn’t guarantee the other.
• Regulations vs. Mechanisms
  Data privacy encompasses the regulations and policies that govern how your data is used when shared with an entity. Data protection, on the other hand, involves mechanisms to enforce these policies and prevent unauthorized access or misuse of shared data.
• User Control vs. Company Responsibility
  Data privacy controls are often in the hands of users, allowing them to decide which data to share and with whom. Conversely, data protection is largely the company’s responsibility. Companies must ensure that the privacy preferences set by users are upheld and that the data is protected from breaches.
• Safety From Sharing Vs. Safety From Hacks
  Data privacy is about keeping your information from being sold or shared without your consent. Data protection focuses on defending that information from hackers. Companies need to clarify this distinction and establish policies for handling each type of data threat.
• The Need for Professional Expertise
  Data protection is about defending organizational assets and keeping external threats at bay. It requires experts in the cybersecurity industry in Maryland. Data privacy, however, involves managing and handling people’s data within the organization.

While data protection and data privacy are interlinked concepts for cybersecurity training in Lanham, Maryland, they address different aspects of cybersecurity. Understanding and implementing both are essential for creating a secure and trustworthy environment for handling digital information. With Cyber Ready Security Training, you’ll receive world-class training to help you achieve your aspirations and goals. Contact us now.