Final answer:
Protecting personal information privacy includes identifying where data is stored, who has access, and what data is kept.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first steps in protecting the privacy of personal information involve a comprehensive approach that includes the identification of where sensitive information is stored, who has access to the sensitive information, and what sensitive information is possessed by the organization. In essence, all of these steps are crucial as combined they form the foundation of a robust privacy protection strategy. Knowing the locations of data storage is essential for implementing security measures, understanding access levels helps in regulating who can view or use the data, and being aware of the types of information held ensures that only necessary data is collected and retained.
Individuals can also contribute to safeguarding their data by reading privacy policies before making purchases, providing only the minimum necessary information, inquiring about the purposes of data collection, and regularly monitoring their credit history for unusual activities that may signal identity theft. Additionally, organizations are bound by laws such as the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) in the United States and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the European Union, which dictate how personal data should be managed and protect the individual's rights.