Evaluating digital tools

How can I tell whether my information is safe?

Does a digital have to tell me how my information will be used?

Any digital tool must tell you how your information and any data you provide will be used. This is the law under the Data Protection and GDPR regulations. They must give you this information before you download or access the tool. You should receive enough information to allow you to make an informed choice. Unfortunately, this is often written in complicated legal language in privacy policies. 

How can I minimise the risk of my information being shared?

To minimise risk, take the time to review what information different tools request of you. The more sensitive the information, the more care you should take. Try reading the privacy notice to make sure your information will be kept safe, secure and private. 

Unfortunately, not everyone will process your data lawfully. There have been cases where companies have shared information with others without consent. Most often, data is sold for targeted advertisements. But other misuses of data might be even more dangerous. So always consider what you may want to disclose in the first place and who with.