Know the Code for Data Privacy Awareness Month

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By the Office of Ethics and Compliance

This month, in recognition of Data Privacy Awareness Month, is a good time to remember how to stay “cyber” safe and knowing the importance and difference between Privacy and Security is a good start.    

So, what’s the importance? The importance of Privacy and Security comes down to: 

  • how data is being collected,  

  • how data is being used,  

  • how and with whom data is being shared, and  

  • the type of safeguards that protect the data.  

Some people regard privacy and security as pretty much the same thing. That’s because the two sometimes overlap in a connected world. But they aren’t the same and knowing how they differ will help you to protect yourself and our clients and customers in an increasingly connected world. 

Privacy relates to the rights a person has to control their personal information and how it’s used. Privacy notices are an example of a data subject’s right to know how data will be used by an organization. 

Security, on the other hand, refers to how a person’s personal information is protected.   

Because personal data—different details about individuals—may live in a lot of places, both privacy and security are key. 

Security is about protecting data from malicious threats, whereas privacy is about using data responsibly. 

When it comes to privacy and security, it’s a good idea to have both. Each can impact cyber safety. 

If you have concerns about safeguarding confidential or personal information contact the County Technology Office for electronic concerns at (619) 531-5570 or CTO.Feedback@sdcounty.ca.gov; or contact the Office of Ethics and Compliance for non-technology concerns at (619) 531-5714 or OEC@sdcounty.ca.gov.   

HHSA staff can refer to Safeguarding Protected Information - Procedure L-26 and contact the Agency Compliance Office at (619) 338-2808 or PrivacyOfficer.HHSA@SDCounty.ca.gov with questions. 

Check out the OEC webpage on InSite for information about upcoming Ethics & Compliance Program events, training, and resources including monthly “Know the Code” articles and micro-training videos. 

If you have questions about Ethics & Compliance training or how to access the training and other Ethics & Compliance resources, please contact the OEC team! 

Know the Code is a monthly series highlighting different sections of the County of San Diego Code of Ethics. The mission of the Office of Ethics and Compliance (OEC) is to assist in fulfilling the County’s commitment to the highest standards of ethics and compliance.