The HIPAA Journal reported that “2020 was the worst ever year for healthcare industry data breaches.” In the US alone, there were 642 reported data breaches in which the number of records stolen exceeded 500, and in total, nearly 29.3 million healthcare records were exposed.

People are increasingly becoming aware of the threats posed by hackers who infiltrate devices using viruses, spyware and malware. However, it may be time to shine the spotlight on “stalkerware”, a completely different type of cyber security threat that nevertheless has lasting negative repercussions. In this article, we will talk about this malicious software, which allows a remote user to surveil all activities on another user’s device.

A web developer’s ultimate goal is to not only develop a website or an app that is aesthetically and functionally stunning but highly secure as well. Cybersecurity is inevitable and no end-user would want to have an app that could breach or compromise their data security and integrity (no matter how useful the app is). With hackers and middlemen working on creative ways to explore vulnerabilities, it is on developers like us to take charge and be a step ahead of them.

As more businesses collect and share customer personal data for their digital economy, it has significantly influenced data privacy in today’s digital age. Data is the most critical asset to both businesses and customers/users. Businesses must ensure the confidentiality and integrity of users’ data and impose strict control over personal data collection and processing.