{"id":96461,"date":"2026-01-13T10:05:59","date_gmt":"2026-01-13T15:05:59","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rbcroyalbank.com\/en-ca\/?post_type=rbc_my_money_matter&p=96461"},"modified":"2026-01-13T10:06:01","modified_gmt":"2026-01-13T15:06:01","slug":"new-year-new-data-habits-your-2026-data-privacy-checklist","status":"publish","type":"rbc_my_money_matter","link":"https:\/\/www.rbcroyalbank.com\/en-ca\/my-money-matters\/money-academy\/cyber-security\/understanding-cyber-security\/new-year-new-data-habits-your-2026-data-privacy-checklist\/","title":{"rendered":"New Year, New Data Habits: Your 2026 Data Privacy Checklist"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
\n
\n

Every January, we eagerly set resolutions to improve our physical health, finances, or personal growth. But in today\u2019s connected world, our digital lives deserve just as much attention. Think about it: How often do you reuse passwords, ignore software updates, or overlook privacy settings? These small oversights can leave your personal data vulnerable to cyber threats.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This year, let\u2019s broaden our resolutions to include digital wellness. After all, a fresh start isn\u2019t just about physical or financial goals \u2013 it\u2019s about safeguarding every aspect of your life, including the one that lives online. Here are 5 tips to help you kick off the year with stronger data privacy:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Update your passwords<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Why it matters:<\/strong> Weak or reused passwords are like an open invitation for hackers. If your password is easy to guess or used across multiple sites, it makes it much simpler for cyber criminals to gain access to your accounts.
What to do:<\/strong> Make it a habit to reset your passwords regularly, starting with your most critical accounts, like banking, email, and social media. Aim for strong, unique passwords \u2013 think 12+ characters with a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols. A friendly reminder to never reuse your banking password for other accounts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Why it matters:<\/strong> Even if a password is compromised, 2FA adds an extra layer of security. It ensures that even if someone gets your password, they still can\u2019t access your account without that second verification step.
What to do:<\/strong> Turn on 2FA for all accounts that offer it \u2013 especially banking, email, and social media. Most platforms make this easy to set up in your security settings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Review app and website permissions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Why it matters:<\/strong> Many apps and websites collect more data than they actually need. Over time, this can lead to unnecessary privacy risks if that data falls into the wrong hands.
What to do:<\/strong> Take a few minutes to check your privacy settings on your apps and other accounts. Limit permissions like location tracking, microphone or camera access, and data sharing wherever they aren\u2019t essential. While you\u2019re at it, remove apps from your devices that you no longer use. This helps protect your information and saves you some device storage!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Scour and protect your socials<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Why it matters:<\/strong> Social media accounts are commonly hacked. They include a wealth of information about you \u2013 photos, names of family and pets, birthdays, etc. All of this is intel that a hacker can use to steal your identity or engineer a scam targeted to you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

What to do:<\/strong> Protect your socials by reviewing your privacy settings \u2013 set your profiles to private and turn off geotagging\/location in your device\u2019s settings. Delete accounts that you don\u2019t check or engage with. For accounts you\u2019re keeping, take a moment to review your posts, and remove any unnecessary information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Be wary of phishing attempts<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Why it matters:<\/strong> Phishing is a common online scam where an email is sent attempting to trick you into revealing sensitive information by pretending to be a trusted source, like your bank or a service provider. The fraudster then gains access to your accounts or computer system.
What to do:<\/strong> Treat unsolicited communication with caution, it\u2019s likely not legitimate. Don\u2019t click on any link, attachment, or provide information if you can\u2019t confirm with certainty who\u2019s contacting you. Remember, legitimate organizations will never ask for information in this manner. Simply ignore the email and delete it. When in doubt, contact the company directly via the contact information on their official website.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Stay Proactive<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

New year, new you; but don\u2019t forget your digital self. Just like decluttering your home or starting a fitness routine, a digital detox or data hygiene check-up can protect your identity, finances, and peace of mind. By adopting smarter habits \u2013 like strengthening passwords, reviewing app permissions, or auditing your social media accounts \u2013 you\u2019ll build a safer, more resilient digital persona in 2026.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n

It is critical that we all become more cyber aware and safeguard our online activities. Visit Be Cyber Aware<\/a><\/strong> for more tips.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

<\/p>\n\n\n\n