Access to and utilisation of sensitive Information

Rights Regarding Personal Biometric Data

Whereas it is recognised that individuals possess inherent rights to safeguard their bodily integrity and personal attributes, including but not limited to fingerprints and facial characteristics;
Whereas it is acknowledged that such biometric data constitutes personal property and is subject to protection under legal principles governing property rights;
Therefore, it is declared that individuals have the fundamental right to protect their bodies, including their fingerprints and facial characteristics, as they are recognised as personal property.
This declaration affirms the individual's entitlement to exercise control over their biometric data's collection, use, and dissemination, ensuring that such information remains within their purview and is not subject to unauthorised access, exploitation, or infringement.

Exercise prudence when divulging personal information, whether online or offline. Refrain from disclosing confidential data such as Social Security numbers, Driver's licences, Passport Details, Birth dates, home addresses, Medicare details, working with children checks (WWCC), bank account details, passwords, user names, and email unless it is required and intended for trustworthy individuals.
In today's world, online meetings have become an integral part of our lives. However, we should be cautious while sharing sensitive information with third parties. Biometric data, such as fingerprints, facial or retina scans, and similar information, is unique and should be kept private and secure. Unlike usernames, passwords, or email addresses, biometric data is immutable and can't be changed. Once compromised, biometric details can never be recovered or altered. Therefore, it's crucial to inquire how collecting and processing procedures protect your personal information. With this in mind, let's ensure that our information is safe and secure by being mindful of how we share it during online meetings, using biometric scanning devices, and uploading mechanisms.

It is strongly advised that you only share confidential information with entities that meet the following criteria:
 They have a physical presence onshore and respect data  sovereignty laws.

 They should not provide access to your personal information via non-secured third-party data processing channels.
 They do not allow biometric information to be accessed or processed from any offshore location with or without a secure channel.
 They can provide documented evidence that they have secured your sensitive information on third-party platforms.

It is your right to protect your body, including your fingerprints and facial characteristics, as they are your property.

Before sharing biometric information, 
it's essential to verify that businesses or third-party platforms  have  robust security measures to safeguard it.
What measures are in place to control access to biometric data?
 Are multi-factor authentication mechanisms used?
 How is access to biometric databases monitored and audited?
 Are access logs regularly reviewed for suspicious activity? 
 Is there a system to track and trace access to biometric data?
 What security measures are in place to prevent unauthorised access and data breaches? 
  Are NextGen intrusion detection systems and firewalls  implemented to protect against cyber threats? 
 How frequently are security protocols tested and updated to address new threats?

 What are the policies for retaining and deleting biometric data?
  Is there a secure protocol for deleting unnecessary data?
 How is biometric data transmitted securely? 
 Are secure communication channels (e.g., encrypted connections) used to transmit biometric data?
 Are there protocols to protect against interception or tampering during transmission?
 What measures are in place to prevent insider threats?
 How are employees trained to handle and protect biometric data?
 Are there access controls and monitoring systems to stop unauthorised access by insiders?
 How do you ensure you follow all the necessary regulations and standards?
 Do you comply with data protection regulations such as GDPR, CCPA, or other applicable laws?
 Do you adhere to industry standards and best practices for securing biometric data?
 What is the process for reporting and responding to security incidents?
 Is there a documented incident response plan for handling security breaches or data leaks?
 How quickly are security incidents identified, reported, and addressed?
 Can you provide documentation or reports from independent security audits or certifications to validate the effectiveness of your security measures?

Posing relevant questions can assist individuals in making informed decisions regarding entrusting their biometric data to a business or third-party platform. This, in turn, ensures that adequate security measures are in place to safeguard this sensitive data. Consequently, the security of biometric data must be afforded the highest degree of protection to maintain the privacy and confidentiality of such information.

Reduce the risk of identity theft

It's important to exercise caution when it comes to sharing personal information, whether it's online or offline. Exercise caution when it comes to sharing sensitive information like Social Security numbers, bank account details, and passwords. Only provide this information if it is essential and to trusted entities.

U se Strong, Unique Passwords:

It is essential to have strong and unique passwords for your online accounts. Combine letters, numbers, and special characters to create a strong password. Avoid using easily guessable information like birthdates or common words. To keep track of your passwords, consider using a reputable password manager to store and manage them securely.

Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA):

It is recommended to use multi-factor authentication (MFA) wherever possible, especially for sensitive accounts. MFA adds an extra layer of security by requiring additional verification beyond just a password, such as a one-time code sent to a mobile device.

Secure Personal Devices: 

Ensure your devices are secure by installing antivirus software, enabling automatic updates, using strong encryption, and setting a PIN, password, or biometric authentication. When accessing online platforms, seek those that offer  device attestation  as an extra layer of protection.

Be Cautious Online:

It is essential to be cautious of suspicious emails or messages that may be phishing attempts to steal personal information. It is best to refrain from clicking links or downloading attachments from unknown or untrusted sources.

Monitor Financial Statements: 

It is essential to regularly check bank statements, credit card statements, and credit reports for any suspicious activity or unauthorised transactions. If there are any discrepancies or unauthorised charges, they should be reported to the financial institution immediately.

Shred Sensitive Documents: 

It is recommended to shred documents containing personal or financial information before disposal to prevent identity theft.

Secure Your Mail: 

Make sure to leave your mail unattended! Act promptly and retrieve it from your mailbox, mainly if it contains sensitive information like bills, bank statements, or credit card offers. Upgrade your mailbox to a locked one, or get a P.O. box for protection. Your personal information is priceless - don't let it fall into the wrong hands.

Limit Information on Social Media:

It is advisable to be cautious when sharing personal information on social media platforms. Avoid sharing sensitive information such as your full birthdate, home address, and daily routine, as identity thieves could use it to exploit you.

Protect Your Identity Cards and Numbers:

It is important to be aware that sensitive information such as your Driver's license number, Social Security number, Medicare ID, and Passport number can be used by fraudsters to steal your identity or commit fraud. Therefore, it is essential to keep this information confidential and only share it when absolutely necessary. By taking these simple steps, you can prevent yourself from experiencing significant financial loss and trouble in the future.

Stay Informed: 

Keep up with the newest identity theft scams and tricks that hackers use. Educate yourself and your family regularly about the best ways to avoid identity theft.

By implementing these strategies and staying proactive, you can minimise the chances of becoming a victim of identity theft and safeguard your sensitive data from unauthorised access.