To help you have a good start off the year, we listed ten privacy-focused resolutions to help you navigate your digital self this year.<hl>Dedicate yourself to at least one of these for a digitally safer year.<hl>

The New Year is just around the corner, and we’re getting ready for 2020 to end. Many of us will make the usual list of New Year’s resolutions and vow to be a better version of ourselves, and this should apply not only in the physical world but also digitally. There’s no better time for a data detox, so let’s get out with the old and in with the new.

1. Don’t bury your head in the sand: The first step towards a meaningful data detox is recognizing that one is needed. The Mine logo is an ostrich because they’re famous for burying their heads in the sand. Many of us dread knowing just how bad our privacy state is and would rather neglect it than face reality. A recent survey found that almost half of Americans “don’t know where to begin” to protect their data. In 2021, keep your head up and learn what you can do to improve (spoiler: a lot, but it’s effortless).
2. Seek for value: Now that you’ve decided to do a data detox, let’s discuss what that means. A detox isn’t just blindly deleting every app; instead, you should focus on services that take your data without giving something meaningful in return. Some value could be offering personalized recommendations, while others may pay directly for your willingness to share. Research found that around 40% of users will be willing to share more if they get financial benefits out of the deal. Before choosing to delete privacy permissions, check to see the value, you’re getting from the data you share. Maybe it’s worth it? Perhaps it’s not.‍
3. Value your privacy more: To understand the value of services, you must first decide on the value of your personal data. Put a “price” you’re comfortable with on your privacy, study the implications of data sharing, and understand the true meaning of giving these services access to your personal information. Do you know how they use the data and how they’re keeping it safe?
4. ‍Exercise your rights: Lawmakers in many places have decided to back your data detox by implementing data privacy rights, so take advantage of that. Unfortunately, more than 60% of Americans don’t understand privacy regulations, and even in places with access to these rights like California, many fail to use them to their advantage. A formal survey conducted in the EU showed similar results. Don’t let your privacy rights stay on paper and turn them into reality by actively asking companies to delete any information you’re uncomfortable sharing. ‍
5. Claim ownership: We tend to confuse the idea of data ownership with other privacy-related initiatives. Regulation and awareness are great, but data ownership is something else. Don’t let these or other elements take your eye off the prize. Ensure that the key to your data management capabilities remains in your hands and that you’re the only one calling the shots.  ‍
6. Ongoing management: Don’t wait for 2022 to conduct another data detox. Data ownership is an ongoing effort. You should check your sharing permissions regularly and shut down anything you don’t want to remain active. Sounds tedious? Services like Mine have your back and will update you on new companies in your footprint, potential risks, and recommended reclaims. All you have to do is decide where you want to keep your data and where you don’t. ‍
7. Leave no permission unturned: No company in the world should gain uninterrupted access to your data, and this includes both the biggest tech giants and the smallest startups. Data breaches happen in every industry, so when you’re done using a service, don’t forget to remove your data to minimize your digital risks.  ‍
8. Don’t be afraid: Don’t let all the buzz around data privacy scare you into changing your course of living. Enjoy technology and everything it has to offer, but keep the control in your hands. After all, going off the grid is not an option, and the internet is a wonderful place that offers us many benefits. These include connecting with loved ones when social distancing, access to entertainment, information, and much more. By keeping your data only where you want it, you can stay safe and enjoy the internet without having to change your behavior.‍
9. No excuses: Stop making excuses for why you’re not managing your data. It could not be easier now that technology is on your side. To gain more confidence when using the internet, schedule a few minutes to open a <nofollow>data management account<nofollow>, and check on it every once in a while. Once you get started, you’ll find it hard to believe that you’ve been putting it off for so long. ‍
10. Good karma for digital empowerment: Chances are that your friends and family could use a data audit of their own. If you’ve seen the light when it comes to data ownership, make sure they’re not left behind in 2021 and encourage them to become data owners themselves as a little New Year’s gift. Sharing is caring!

In 2020, we learned that we can’t control everything, no matter how hard we try. Make 2021 the year of newfound control and ownership over your data privacy and personal information. With our tips and your determination, this should be pretty easy.

Happy New Year!