Data Privacy Day is an international initiative to raise awareness and promote privacy and data protection. In today’s interconnected world with technologies like AI, social media, and high-broadband speeds, we’re generating data at an exponential rate. This data is collected and can lead to insights from online-shopping behaviour, health journals, to political views. Abused, threat actors can steal your identity, extort you, or have you under surveillance.

At the GCSP, we believe you should be in control of your data.

The “Modernised Convention 108”, or as it is also known as “Convention 108+”, has the purpose “to protect every individual, whatever his or her nationality or residence, with regard to the processing of their personal data, thereby contributing to respect for his or her human rights and fundamental freedoms, and in particular the right to privacy.”

Data privacy is essential for international peace and security. Breaches of sensitive data can undermine trust between States, fuel disinformation campaigns, and even escalate conflicts. Therefore, data governance frameworks, and the ratification of “Convention 108+”, are key towards a more stable and secure world order.

The 2024 Data Privacy Day’s theme is “Take Control of Your Data”. Do this by:

1. Review your privacy settings in your web-browser. Adjust the settings to your comfort level, limit data sharing, opt out of targeted advertising, and choose strong passphrases).
2. Think twice about what kind of personal information (stories, photos, etc.) you’re posting. Just because you’re using “secure controls” on a social media site doesn’t mean in it’s secure. Or think like this: would I show these pictures to everyone in the city I live in? Would I say this to everyone in the city I live in?
3. Use privacy-enhancing tools and services like strong cryptography, virtual private networks (VPN) to hide your IP-address, browser extensions that block ads and trackers, a search engine that does not track your queries, etc.
4. Educate yourself. This is part of today’s continuous learning philosophy. Clear your browsing history, delete cookies, use two-factor authentication (2FA), don’t connect through a WiFi outside of your home: use your smartphone’s connection.

Are you interested in learning more about cyber security within the context of international security? The GCSP’s Cyber Security department provides opportunities for learning through courses like “Cyber Security in the Context of International Security 2024”, as well as customised solutions to fit your specific needs. Get in contact with us today to build trust, fight misinformation, and keep peace secure together.