Navigating the Minefield of Data Privacy
During our second day of class, our professor recapped the previous topic and shared insights from an accreditation video webinar. He highlighted a Google Form used by the National Service Training Program (NSTP) that included a data privacy consent section, which was a commendable practice. However, as we delved deeper into the form's content, it became apparent that there were instances of oversharing of personal information.
The NSTP enrollment form first asked for the student's name and USEP ID, followed by a request for a Certificate of Registration (COR). Our professor rightfully pointed out that since the COR already contains the student's name and USEP ID, there was no need to ask for this information separately. This redundancy raised concerns about the unnecessary collection and potential misuse of personal data.
To further illustrate the importance of data privacy and security, our professor shared a personal experience. During the freshmen convocation, his photograph was edited, altered, and modified, creating an image that did not accurately represent him. He felt disrespected by this incident, but instead of taking legal action, he chose to use it as an opportunity to educate others about the responsible handling of personal information.
Our professor also posed a thought-provoking question: "How do businesses gain money if they offer significant discounts, such as 50% off during Christmas sales or Cebu Pacific's famous piso fair?" His answer highlighted the concept of markup pricing, where businesses set their prices at a 125% markup over their costs, allowing them to profit even when offering substantial discounts.
This discussion led to an even more profound question: "What is more valuable, data or money?" Our professor emphasized that data holds immense value because if someone steals your money, they only gain what was taken. However, if someone steals your personal data, they gain access to much more, potentially enabling them to steal your money and other possessions as well.
Reflecting on these lessons, I am reminded of the importance of responsible data handling and the need for individuals and institutions to prioritize data privacy and security. By implementing robust consent practices, minimizing the collection of unnecessary personal information, and educating stakeholders about the value of data, we can create a safer and more trusted environment for everyone.
As students, it is our responsibility to be vigilant about the information we share and to advocate for best practices within our academic community. By embracing these principles, we can contribute to a culture of data privacy and security that protects our personal information and upholds the integrity of our institution.
