Personal Data Protection - Assignment Example

There are indeed thousands of solutions to data security available in the technology market but still protection of personal data is very difficult. We have quite common security breaches despite having a wide assortment of technical answers such as personal firewalls, network firewalls, solutions to operating system patching, antiviruses, intrusion detection or prevention systems, anti-spyware, and security management systems. We are not yet able to protect our data because of the fact that we are not ready to take personal responsibility in protecting our data.

This is because computer and network security goes beyond simple purchase of gadgets and software for data protection. Personal responsibility for the manner in which our computers are made use of and how we do take into consideration data handling processes is necessary. For us to address and ensure protection of personal data, we need to introduce institutional and behavioral changes so as to fully tackle computer security threats, reputation risks, and heightening the legislation on data security.

We can only protect our personal data if we take responsibility and avoid careless practice while handling data and processes such as running accounts without passwords, a very common thing among many people (Schuste Steve, 2006, pp.140-141). If we happen to continue with this trend of not taking responsibility and thus being unable to protect our own data, then we live that to the market. However, we cannot argue that the rich will be the only people who will benefit from this move. This is because data protection is a bigger headache to the rich than it is even to the poor or average person.

The richer you are, the higher the government radar is on you and the marketing radar still follows you. Huge transactions involving big funds attract attention from regulatory authorities and the taxman is on the loose to cut a good chunk from it! The vulnerability increases further because of the many interests that a richer person elicits from people. Cyber criminals would also want to have their cake and hence such occurrences like hacked accounts of businessmen will be on the rise. Basically, the market cannot be left to protect personal data.

However, the only advantage that the rich may have could arise if they are able to take personal responsibility and add purchase of some sophisticated data protection software such as premium email services with SSL connections and encryption and security data protectors (Schuste Steve, 2006, pp.140-141). DQ2- Privacy laws: Research laws regarding privacy and data protection in your country and tell us about them. How do they compare to those in other parts of the world? The privacy law for Canada’s federal private sector is Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA).

This is quite comprehensive and applies to personal information of Canadian people that is collected, disclosed or used by an organization (includes a partnership, association, trade union, corporation and an individual) in carrying out any form of commercial activities, within provincial or international borders of Canada. Canada has been pushed by the European community to give enough protection for personal data. In its application, this PIPEDA law stipulates that management of personal information should be practiced and implemented in a reasonable manner.