Data Privacy Day 2025 + UPSC?.ToString()?? UPSC?.ToString()+" Current Affairs";

Each year, on January 28, the world observes Data Privacy Day. The day highlights the significance of privacy and data protection. It all started in Europe, where it was observed earlier as Data Protection Day. In 2008, it was extended to the US and Canada, where it began to be observed as Data Privacy Day. On this day in 1981, the Convention 108, the first legally binding international treaty dealing with privacy and data protection, was signed. Today, Data Privacy Day is observed globally each year.
What is data?
In relation to data privacy, the term ‘data’ refers to personal or sensitive information about individuals that needs to be protected to maintain confidentiality, integrity, and security. This can include any data that identifies the person. The data can include personally identifiable information, such as name, contact details, email ID, date of birth or Aadhar details, PAN card number, passport details, etc. This can also include sensitive personal data such as health records, financial information, and biometric data. Data can also refer to behavioral data, such as online activities, geolocation data, or the device that the user is using, and can include the communication data, such as emails, messages, and call logs.
Why is data privacy important?
Cybersecurity expert and co-founder of The Organisation For Enlightening and Education (TOFEE), Tushar Sharma, said, “When personal data—like your name, address, online activities, or financial details—gets into the wrong hands, it can lead to identity theft, financial fraud, and even stalking or harassment.”
Identity Protection: Personal data, if exposed, can be used to impersonate anyone, leading to unauthorized access to the date of birth, KYC documents, bank details, or even to the victim’s social media profiles.
Financial Safety: Personal financial data, such as credit card details, online purchase history, and banking information, can be misused by cybercriminals/fraudsters to make fraudulent transactions.
 Avoiding Discrimination: Data privacy ensures that sensitive information like your health status, race, or political beliefs isn’t exploited or used against you, whether by employers, insurance companies, or even advertisers.
Personal Autonomy: It’s about your right to control who has access to your information. If you don’t have control over your data, companies, governments, or other entities can make decisions about you without your consent.
Cybersecurity: Protecting data privacy is also essential for preventing larger-scale cyberattacks. If individual data is compromised, it can lead to larger breaches affecting millions of people, compromising personal security on a wider scale.
Freedom from Surveillance: Data privacy also relates to personal freedom. If too much personal information is exposed, it could lead to a world where people feel constantly surveilled or manipulated by companies or governments.