During Data Privacy Week, take these steps to protect your data
Every time you go online, record a workout or ask your smart speaker for help, the devices, websites and apps you use every day collect, store and use your data.
The more integrated technology becomes into our every day lives, the easier it is for that data to be exposed.
At the University of Kentucky, Information Technology Services (UK ITS) is reminding everyone that data privacy matters for everyone.
UK ITS Information Security Manager Kristi Corum said data privacy is everyone’s responsibility.
“We each play a role in protecting sensitive information,” Corum said. “It is important to follow the University of Kentucky’s information security policies and procedures and to use the secure tools approved by the University--this helps defend our community against misuse and unauthorized exposure.”
Although being mindful of technology use may feel overwhelming, everyone can take simple steps to manage data privacy.
During Data Privacy Week, UK ITS encourages the University community to take a few simple steps to safeguard data.
- Use a password manager. This is the most secure way to store and manage all of your account information. How using a password manager saves time and keeps your personal data secure | Information Technology Services.
- Enable multi‑factor authentication on UK accounts. Why you should be using multifactor authentication for all your online accounts | Information Technology Services
- Report online scams and fraud: Home Page - Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)
- Report phishing attempts. Reporting Phishing and Junk Mail, How You Can Contribute to Protecting Us All | Information Technology Services
- Be intentional about the information you provide online — especially when using apps, websites or services for academic, research or campus activities.
- Think before downloading new apps or connecting devices like computers or smart speakers that may collect or share more data than you expect.
- Only access personal or sensitive information needed for your role as student, faculty, or staff.
- Keep devices secure by installing updates, locking screens and reporting lost or stolen devices promptly.
- Follow university IT guidance and report privacy or security issues promptly.
Sign up for UK ITS news, alerts and tech tips by visiting: https://its.uky.edu/engage/uk-its-communications. You can also follow UK ITS on social media: https://linktr.ee/its_uky and listen to our new podcast TechKnow: https://its.uky.edu/techknow.