Have you ever turned on your phone’s location to get directions and then forgotten to turn it off? Many of us have. We allow apps to track where we go, what we search for, what we like, and how long we stay online—often without giving it much thought.

These small, everyday choices may seem harmless, but together they create a detailed picture of our lives. Observed this year from January 26 to 30, 2026, Data Privacy Week invites us to pause and reflect on how our personal information is collected, shared, and used—and what we can do to take back control.

What Is Data Privacy?

Data privacy is about who has access to your personal information and how that information is used. This includes details such as your name, location, online activity, photos, messages, and even your habits and preferences.

Just as we expect privacy in our homes and conversations, we also deserve privacy in digital spaces. Data privacy gives us the right to make informed choices about what we share, with whom, and for what purpose.

Understanding Your Data

Every time you use a device or go online, data is created. This can include:

• Your location when using maps or transportation apps
  
  
• Your browsing history and search terms
  
  
• The apps you download and how often you use them
  
  
• Posts, likes, and interactions on social media
  
  

This data often helps services function smoothly, but it also means personal information is constantly being collected in the background. Understanding what data is being gathered—and why—helps us become more mindful and confident digital users.

When Data Becomes a Business

In today’s digital world, data has value. Many companies collect and analyze user information to personalize services, recommend content, or display targeted advertisements. In some cases, data may also be shared with or sold to third parties.

This doesn’t always happen in harmful ways, but problems arise when people don’t fully understand what they are agreeing to. When personal information becomes a business asset, privacy can easily take a back seat to convenience or profit. Awareness helps us make better choices about the platforms and services we trust.

Data Privacy vs. Cybersecurity

Data privacy and cybersecurity are closely connected, but they are not the same.

Cybersecurity focuses on protecting systems and information from breaches, hacks, and unauthorized access. Data privacy focuses on how personal information is collected, shared, and used—even when systems are secure.

They work hand in hand. Secure systems help keep your data protected, but privacy also depends on the everyday decisions we make—what permissions we allow, what information we share, and which services we use. Staying informed helps ensure our personal data is treated with care and respect.

A Moment to Reflect and Act

While we can’t always control how our data is shared once it’s collected, we can stand up for our data. Advertisers and technology companies understand that personal data is valuable—and we should too.

When we begin to think of data as a form of currency, everyday privacy habits become empowering. Reviewing privacy settings, questioning data requests, and choosing services carefully help us decide what we share and with whom. Making informed choices doesn’t just improve security—it brings peace of mind and a sense of agency in our digital lives.

Data Privacy Week reminds us that privacy isn’t about avoiding technology—it’s about using it wisely. Our phones, apps, and online services are meant to support us, not quietly take control.

By understanding what data is collected, recognizing its value, and making thoughtful choices, we protect more than information—we protect our independence, dignity, and trust in the digital world. Small actions, repeated often, help build a safer online environment for everyone.

Privacy begins with awareness, and awareness begins with each of us.

written by Bryan Kaye Senfuma

Bryan is a Digital Rights Advocate, Digital Security Subject Matter Expert, Photographer, and Writer. His articles aim to simplify complex tech issues and inspire readers to make informed, confident choices online. Email: bryantravolla@gmail.com