The Importance of Vigilance in Sharing Personal Data Online
The Estonian Data Protection Authority (AKI) has published an awareness communication on the risks related to sharing personal data when using applications, online stores, and social networks.
The authority emphasizes that users often quickly consent to the processing of their data to access services, without assessing the nature of the information shared. This data, such as name, email address, location, or usage habits, may seem harmless but their combination allows the creation of detailed profiles. Once information or content is shared online, control becomes difficult, as they can be copied, shared with third parties, or used for other purposes, even after the initial publication is deleted. AKI therefore recommends that users question the necessity of the requested data and the identity of the recipients before communicating it. This awareness initiative is supported by a video produced in collaboration with the European Union's "Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values" (CERV) programme.
The authority emphasizes that users often quickly consent to the processing of their data to access services, without assessing the nature of the information shared. This data, such as name, email address, location, or usage habits, may seem harmless but their combination allows the creation of detailed profiles. Once information or content is shared online, control becomes difficult, as they can be copied, shared with third parties, or used for other purposes, even after the initial publication is deleted. AKI therefore recommends that users question the necessity of the requested data and the identity of the recipients before communicating it. This awareness initiative is supported by a video produced in collaboration with the European Union's "Citizens, Equality, Rights and Values" (CERV) programme.
Additional information
The full analysis is for members
Penalty amount, topics, sectors, entities and data involved: the 14-day free trial opens the whole record and personalised monitoring.
Start for free 14 days · full access · no credit card