5 Key Components Every Company Should Have in Their Privacy Policy
As a business owner, you’re no stranger to the myriad moving parts that keep the day-to-day business going. In all the bustle, it can be easy to overlook important tasks such as creating a privacy policy because you’re unsure where to start or which elements to include.
Earlier this year, the EU’s GDPR—the General Data Protection Regulation—went into effect, delineating how companies handle consumer data for EU citizens. Because the internet is accessible worldwide, most companies have had to update their privacy policies in case they get visits from EU citizens.
Even if you think the GDPR doesn’t affect your business (though Forbes notes it probably does), your privacy policy should be updated to protect your business and to show your customers you’re trustworthy when it comes to handling their private information.
Listed below are five key components to include in your company privacy policy—and tips to take customer privacy beyond the policy. Including these elements will help you create a set of terms that gives your customers peace of mind so they’ll stay on your site longer and feel safe referring family and friends.
Types of Data You Collect
If your business collects personal data, you may be required by state law or federal guidance to itemize the types of personal data you collect. Let your customers know all types of data collected, including the following:
- Name
- E-mail address
- Birthdate
- Mailing Address
- Phone Number
- Credit Card Information
Many businesses collect information from their customers for varying situations. Privacy laws require businesses to collect only personal data that is needed and indicate why they need it. For example, a mailing order would likely require the customer name, address and potentially phone number.
Don’t forget about phone data, either. Customer service and sales are often required to gather (Read more...)
*** This is a Security Bloggers Network syndicated blog from The State of Security authored by Tripwire Guest Authors. Read the original post at: https://www.tripwire.com/state-of-security/featured/key-components-privacy-policy/