Data privacy
What is data privacy?
Data privacy typically refers to how organizations collect, store, share, and protect personal or sensitive information. It’s about making sure that individuals have control over their data and how it is used, and that organizations that have personal information handle it responsibly.
Where do we see data privacy in action?
When someone provides their personal details to a business — like their name, address, or financial info - they trust that it will be used appropriately and kept secure. In turn, businesses are expected to manage this data with care to prevent unauthorized use or breaches, while also offering transparency about what data is being collected and how it’s used. That is why a lot of organizations turn to tools like DocuWare and RICOH Smart Integration to support these efforts by offering secure document storage, access controls, and more to help them stay aligned with privacy regulations and internal policies.
Why is data privacy important?
Data privacy has become a major concern for individuals and organizations alike. As more personal information is shared and stored digitally, people naturally have questions about how that data is handled and protected. Protecting data and personal privacy, business or consumer, carries with it many benefits including:
Increased trust with customers and employees
Reduced risk of data breaches and legal issues
Meeting compliance regulations with privacy laws like GDPR
Commonly asked questions
Is data privacy the same as data security?
Not exactly. Data security is about protecting data from external threats, while data privacy focuses on how data is used and shared responsibly.
What kind of data is considered private?
Private data can include any personal identifiable information (PII), such as names, addresses, phone numbers, social security numbers, health records, financial information, and more.
What is a privacy policy, and why should I read it?
A privacy policy explains how a company collects, uses, and protects your data. Reading it helps you understand what you're agreeing to and how your data is handled.
How do data breaches affect privacy?
A data breach exposes personal information to unauthorized parties. This can lead to identity theft, financial loss, and more.