Insights | Development

Getting serious about data privacy

28 January 2025

For businesses in the UK, Data Privacy Day, held annually on January 28th, is a reminder to think about how you handle, store, and protect sensitive data.

It’s not just the financial services and multinationals who need to be aware, every company needs to step up to ensure they are:

  • Promoting best practices for data protection and privacy
  • Safeguarding personal information
  • Educating staff, customers and other stakeholders about staying secure online.

From retailers managing and processing payments, those in the travel industry storing customer information, to technology companies drawing on user profiles and software analytics, every business deals in data.

GDPR compliance

General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) compliance is a must, it can be complex but it’s important for all online businesses. If you are collecting and processing (store, analyse, aggregate, etc.) the personal data of residents in the EU your business is obligated to comply with the GDPR.

Make sure you have a privacy policy on your website stating how, why and for how long you are storing the data but also if that data is shared with third parties. Users need to know their rights, the right to access, the right to delete, the right to object and opt out.

Data can't be collected before consent is obtained such as cookies or tracking, these cannot be set before the user has consented to them. Users should still have access even if they decline consent, they shouldn't be blocked completely but be notified that without consent some functions and services may not work properly and may affect the user experience.

Why Data Privacy Matters for SMBs

Small and medium-sized businesses are prime targets for cyberattacks. Why? Because they often lack the security infrastructure found in larger organisations. A single breach can result in:

  • Financial losses from fines or fraud
  • Damage to your business’s reputation
  • Loss of customer trust

With new regulations and evolving threats, managing data effectively isn’t just a technical issue - it’s a strategic business priority which should be a shared responsibility by everyone in your business.

6 Top Tips for Managing Data Effectively

To stay ahead of potential risks, SMBs should focus on these practical steps:

  1. Set Privacy Settings on Devices

Ensure every device, app, or software used in your business has the proper privacy settings enabled to minimise data exposure.

2.Use Strong Passwords

Enforce the use of unique, complex passwords and enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) wherever possible.

3.Secure Your Networks

Avoid unsecured WiFi networks for business operations and ensure all company networks are encrypted.

4.Train Your Team

Regularly educate your employees on how to spot phishing attempts, manage sensitive data, and follow cybersecurity best practices.

5.Update and Protect

Keep all software and operating systems up to date, use antivirus programs, and maintain a robust firewall.

6. GDPR compliance

Keep your website GDPR compliant, let your user consent to data being collected and allow for an opt-out.

Don’t get caught out

Data Privacy Day is a reminder for businesses, no matter what size or industry, to reassess their approach to data security. By taking proactive measures, you can protect your business, strengthen customer trust, and stay ahead of potential risks.

Need help navigating your digital transformation? At Dodgems and Floss, we specialise in web development to future-proof your business, ensuring your website, and the data you collect and maintain, is secure. Contact us to learn how we can support your digital business growth.

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Dodgems & Floss

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