As we continue to kick off the new year, it is only fitting that we dedicate a week to data privacy--everyone's favorite topic… No? Just ours? Well, if you find yourself reading this then you probably have some interest in the world of data privacy. At the end of January each year, we have an excuse to pause and spend the day focusing on data privacy. As the years go on, this becomes increasingly more relevant and important to think about as our highly digitized society produces copious amounts of data on a daily basis, leading data to be considered the most valuable asset in today's economy. Data privacy week, celebrated from January 26-30 this year, aims to spread awareness about your online privacy, which is something that billions of people in this world have a vested interest in.
The theme for Data Privacy Week 2026 is: Take Control of your Data. With how technically-driven our society is, it is pertinent that we know how to do just that - take control of our own data. Data is constantly being created and collected, from the time you wake up and put on your smart watch, when you get in your car and connect your device to CarPlay, if you accidentally drive a bit too fast on Good Luck Road (we’ve all been there). Data is everywhere, and, while it is impossible to be in control of every piece of data collected on yourself, you can and should still be aware of the ways in which you can manage your data. Below are some tips and resources that can help you be more in control of your data:
- Update Your Privacy Settings: Do you find yourself wanting to take control of your data, but have no idea where to start? This article provides direct links to control your privacy settings on popular apps and websites.
- Think Before you Click: When downloading a new app, or accessing a new webpage, pause before you blindly hit “accept all” when prompted to allow access to your location, photos, contacts, or to enable cookies.
- As an organization, respect the privacy of your employees and consumers through knowing what data is collected, and implementing the appropriate protections for it.
- Review your social media and be mindful of what you choose to share. As they say, once something is posted on the internet, it never disappears!
Get involved and consider attending some of these 30-minute events sponsored by Data Privacy Week to learn more about all-things data:
- Data Privacy Week Kickoff - January 26 at 1 p.m. EST
Kick off Data Privacy Week with a look at how your personal information is being collected, used, and shared online, especially when interacting with AI tools. This session breaks down what data privacy really means today, how AI chatbots handle user information, and why your digital footprint matters. Hear from privacy and technology experts and walk away with simple, actionable steps to better understand and take control of your data in an AI-driven world. - Children's Privacy in a Digital World - January 27 at 1:30 p.m. EST
As technology becomes central to learning and communication, children and teens face unique and evolving privacy challenges. This webinar explores how student data is collected and protected, the growing push for age verification, and what new policy proposals like the Children’s Online Safety Act could mean for families, schools, and platforms. Attendees will gain a clearer understanding of the rights, risks, and responsibilities shaping young people’s digital lives today. - Privacy Law Made Simple - January 28 at 12 p.m. EST
Data privacy laws are changing quickly, and it’s not always clear what those changes mean for you. This session breaks down today’s privacy law landscape in plain language. It will cover what rights you have over your personal data, what companies are required to do to protect it, and how new and emerging laws affect the apps and services you use every day. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of how to use existing protections and stay informed as privacy rules continue to evolve. - Dynamic Pricing: When Algorithms Set the Cost - January 29 at 12 p.m. EST
Many of the prices we pay today, from travel and ride-shares to online shopping, are set by algorithms, not people. This session explores how dynamic pricing works, what personal data may be used to influence prices, and the privacy and fairness concerns behind data-driven pricing models. Hear from experts who will break down where personalization ends and profiling begins, and learn how to stay informed and empowered when algorithms help determine what you pay. - The Right to Be Forgotten: Deleting Your Online Data - January 30 at 12 p.m. EST
Concerned about old posts, unused accounts, or personal information lingering online? This session explains what the “Right to Be Forgotten” is, where it applies, and how you can request the removal of your data from websites, apps, and search engines. Attendees will also learn practical steps to reduce their digital footprint and better protect personal information moving forward. - Level Up Your Privacy Game! - January 30 at 1 p.m. EST
A fun and interactive trivia game show, where you can test your knowledge on all things data privacy. Play along, and learn some new information and tips along the way!
Data Privacy Week is a reminder that while technology continues to evolve, our responsibility to understand and protect our personal information grows alongside it. Taking control of your data doesn’t mean you have to unplug from the digital world, it means being informed, asking questions, and making intentional choices about how your information is shared and used. Whether you’re adjusting privacy settings, rethinking what you post online, or learning more about your rights, small steps can make a big difference.
Take advantage of the events offered throughout Data Privacy Week to deepen your understanding, spark meaningful conversations, and build habits that support a more privacy-forward digital life. After all, data privacy isn’t just a week-long thing, it’s something that impacts us every day and should be a year-round practice. Happy Data Privacy Week!