Fun Fact: The phrase “The Internet Never Forgets” isn’t just a catchy warning—it’s a reality. Even deleted posts, photos, or tweets can be archived, screenshotted, or cached, making them retrievable long after you’ve hit “delete.”
In our hyper-connected world, where every click, like, and share contributes to our digital footprint, the adage “The Internet Never Forgets” serves as a stark reminder. Digital privacy isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a fundamental right that’s increasingly under threat. From social media oversharing to sophisticated data breaches, our personal information is more vulnerable than ever. This article delves into why digital privacy matters more than ever and what steps we can take to protect ourselves.
The Digital Footprint: More Than Just Data
Every action we take online—be it a Google search, a Facebook like, or an online purchase—adds to our digital footprint. This data is collected, analysed, and often sold to advertisers, data brokers, and even political campaigns. The Cambridge Analytica scandal, where data from millions of Facebook users was harvested without consent for political advertising, is a prime example of how our digital footprints can be exploited.
Real-World Consequences of Digital Exposure
The repercussions of compromised digital privacy are not just theoretical. In 2023, personal genomics company 23andMe suffered a data breach that exposed sensitive genetic information of approximately 6.9 million users. This breach not only violated user privacy but also raised concerns about potential misuse of genetic data.
Similarly, in 2019, spyware developed by Israeli firm NSO Group exploited a vulnerability in WhatsApp, targeting over 1,400 users, including journalists and human rights activists. Meta, WhatsApp’s parent company, was awarded $167.25 million in damages after a U.S. federal jury found NSO Group liable for the hacking.
The Indian Context: A Wake-Up Call
India, with its burgeoning digital population, is particularly susceptible to privacy breaches. The Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023, was a significant step towards safeguarding personal data. However, a survey by PwC India revealed that only 16% of consumers are aware of the DPDP Act and their rights under it.
This lack of awareness is alarming, especially considering the increasing number of data breaches in the country. For instance, in 2022, Medibank, Australia’s largest private health insurer, faced allegations for failing to protect the personal information of nearly 10 million members after a significant cyberattack.
The Illusion of Control: Social Media and Oversharing
Social media platforms encourage sharing, but this often leads to oversharing personal information. Once shared, this information can be difficult to retract. Even deleted posts can be archived or screenshotted, making them permanent fixtures in the digital realm.
Moreover, social media companies collect vast amounts of user data to tailor advertisements and content. This data collection often occurs without explicit user consent, raising ethical and privacy concerns.
The Need for Robust Digital Privacy Measures
Protecting digital privacy requires a multifaceted approach:
Legislation: Governments must enact and enforce robust data protection laws. The DPDP Act is a step in the right direction, but effective implementation and public awareness are crucial.
Corporate Responsibility: Companies must prioritize user privacy, implementing stringent data protection measures and being transparent about data usage.
Public Awareness: Individuals must be educated about digital privacy risks and best practices to safeguard their information.
Conclusion
In an era where data is the new oil, digital privacy is more critical than ever. The internet’s memory is unforgiving, and the consequences of compromised privacy can be severe and far-reaching. It’s imperative for individuals, corporations, and governments to recognise the importance of digital privacy and take proactive steps to protect it. After all, once our data is out there, there’s no turning back.
Author’s Note:
As we navigate the digital age, it’s essential to remain vigilant about our online activities and the information we share. Digital privacy isn’t just a personal concern; it’s a collective responsibility.
G.C., Ecosociosphere contributor.
References and Further Reading:
- Facebook–Cambridge Analytica data scandal
- Meta awarded $167.25 million over Pegasus spyware attack
- Understanding India’s New Data Protection Law
- Only 16% of consumers are aware of the DPDP Act: PwC
- Biggest Data Breaches in US History (Updated 2025)
- https://www.theaustralian.com.au/business/technology/medibank-to-defend-oaics-federal-court-claims-it-seriously-interfered-with-customer-privacy/news-story/b2db3529ab08b01773dda64d69c27fee?utm_source=chatgpt.com
- 23andMe data leak
- Israeli spyware giant NSO Group ordered to pay nearly $170M to WhatsApp for hacking accounts
- Operationalizing India’s new data protection law: The challenges, opportunities ahead
- Only 16% of consumers are aware of the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act; 69% of consumers express concerns over the safety of their personal data with organizations: PwC India Survey | theinfoedge.com. https://theinfoedge.com/only-16-of-consumers-are-aware-of-the-digital-personal-data-protection-dpdp-act-69-of-consumers-express-concerns-over-the-safety-of-their-personal-data-with-organizations-pwc-india-survey/
- Omegle Play Store and privacy concerns. | Ocean Park. https://www.oceanpark.co.za/omegle-play-store-and-privacy-concerns/
- viber security issues – watch aot. https://www.watch-aot.com/viber-security-issues/
