Information Protection Policy

Do you protect your private information and the information of others? 

I have two phone numbers and multiple e-mail accounts.  Both my phone numbers go directly to my iPhone.  My personal line is my actual phone number.  I have a Google Voice number that is forwarded to my phone.  I give my Google number to everyone, it’s on my business cards, and I use it anytime I fill out a form.  I use Google because I can turn it off.   I can also block any number I want very easily. 

E-mail accounts are much the same way.  I use Google for everything.  I have multiple email accounts from different providers, but only check two accounts, my business and my private.  Everything goes to these two accounts through Google.  It supper simplifies my life and keeps all my contacts synced with my iPhone.

The hardest part is understanding how it all works and why.  Using Google is free, but Google data minds your emails for advertising information.   Did you know that your iPhone tracks everywhere you go?  Did you know that Google is tracking your Android phone?  We all give up some of our privacy for convenience.  Just understand what information you are giving out.   

The other side, do you have a personal policy about giving out other people’s information?  How do you send mass emails and forwards?

Personally, and in my business, I only give out people’s information with their express permission prior to revealing any personal information.   Sounds complicated, here is how it works.  My friend Mike wants my friend Matt’s phone number.  I ask Mike to hold on a minute, and I call Matt.  “Hey Matt, Mike wants to talk to you, should I give him your phone number?”  I make no excuses and tell everyone my policy when they ask for information.

When I send mass emails I use the BCC in Google mail.  That way no one else sees any other email addresses.   If I’m going to forward something, I edit out the long string of everyone else’s emails.

Stay Safe,

Ben

Modern Self Protection