The need to find the balance between providing a unique and tailored customer experience, ensuring data privacy, and adhering to market regulations has become more critical than ever for Communications Service Providers (CSPs). In a world where customers are more demanding, regulations are more stringent, and attacks are more sophisticated, it’s easy to see how telecom organisations deem balancing act challenging.

Just in time for Data Privacy Day 2024 on January 28, the EU Commission is calling for evidence to understand how the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) has been functioning now that we’re nearing the 6th anniversary of the regulation coming into force. We’re so glad they asked, because we have some thoughts. And what better way to celebrate privacy day than by discussing whether the application of the GDPR has actually done anything to improve people’s privacy?

Users are becoming increasingly aware of where and how their information is shared, and their concerns regarding the need to keep that data private are growing in turn. Digitalization, rising daily averages for time spent on the Internet and connected devices, along with the ongoing proliferation of cyberattacks, have made individuals more cautious than ever when it comes to providing information online – and rightfully so.

Data privacy continues to be a hot topic as we become more connected via our devices and even in Virtual or Augmented realities. Technology advancements bring many questions, including how technology protects data (if at all) and how people can ensure their data remains secure. Fortunately, there is a wealth of resources on online privacy out there.

We should all be concerned with our health and well-being. For the most part, we all aspire for good health. Now that doesn’t always mean we are perfect, but we understand the changes and course corrections necessary to feel better physically, mentally, and emotionally. This may include actions like getting more sleep, exercising regularly, routine doctor’s visits and making better food choices along the way.

With Data Privacy Day coming up on January 28, now’s the time to turn over a new leaf when it comes to protecting your personal data.