Your data tells a story. Every click, search, and online interaction generates detailed information about you— organizations collect, share, and even sell data without informing you directly. You deserve control over how organizations handle your personal information. Northeastern is participating in Data Privacy Week, January 27-31, 2025, to raise awareness and empower individuals, like you, to protect their data and make informed decisions.
Why data privacy matters
Data privacy goes beyond simply keeping your passwords secure—it’s about controlling who can access details about your life. From your online shopping habits and social media activity to sensitive health information, companies gather and store vast amounts of data every day.
Here’s why protecting your data is so important:
- Companies often store personal data indefinitely. Companies can keep your data long after you stop using their services.
- Businesses use data to shape assumptions about you. From your purchase history to the restaurants you visit, businesses use this data to build a profile about your habits and preferences.
- Organizations frequently sell data for profit. Many organizations profit by sharing your personal information with third parties.
But here’s the good news: You have the power to take control.
Data Privacy Week events at Northeastern
Get involved and learn how to better protect your personal data through a series of interactive events happening across campus:
- Fishing for phishing trivia game – Test your cybersecurity knowledge and learn how to spot phishing scams at Snell Library.
- Data privacy & AI expert panel – Join experts for a discussion on how artificial intelligence impacts data privacy and what you can do to stay informed.
- Meme contest – Create a meme related to online safety or phishing scams for a chance to win a Northeastern mug and sweater.
View the complete Data Privacy Week schedule >
How to take charge of your data
Northeastern encourages the entire community to adopt simple, repeatable habits to safeguard personal information during Data Privacy Week.
- Manage your privacy settings. Regularly review and adjust the privacy controls on your social media, apps, and devices.
- Use multi-factor authentication (MFA). Adding an extra layer of security makes it harder for unauthorized users to access your accounts.
- Stay cautious with links and attachments. Scammers frequently send urgent messages containing harmful links. Always verify the sender.
- Limit the data you share. Avoid oversharing personal information on social media and unverified platforms.
- Monitor your accounts. Keep an eye on bank statements, credit reports, and online accounts for unusual activity.
Respect privacy in the digital age
Data privacy isn’t just an individual responsibility. Universities and businesses play a critical role in protecting the information they collect. Northeastern actively safeguards community data and promotes safe online practices across all its campuses. For more information on staying safe online and managing your data, visit the Phish Bowl or explore resources from the National Cybersecurity Alliance.