Data Privacy

Data privacy is important in the private and public sectors, including at UW–Madison. 

What Does Privacy Mean at UW–Madison?

Data privacy refers to a set of principles governing individuals’ control over their own information, and the appropriate use and access of that information. It is related to data security, but differs in meaningful ways. In addition to our robust security program, UW–Madison is invested in data privacy and our websites have a lot to share. The Universities of Wisconsin have a privacy policy that establishes a foundation for the privacy of personal data throughout the Universities of Wisconsin. Our UW–Madison Privacy Notice, Cookies and Tracking Notice, and GDPR Notice explain how our websites process data and protect user privacy.

As employees, we have the ability to protect our privacy and the privacy of others through basic data privacy practices. Here’s one that’s simple, but has a big impact: use only enterprise or UW vetted tools at work. If you’re using a “free” service online, you’re providing the vendor access to and use of all the data you put in. Remember, it’s free because whatever small cost there is to provide the platform to you, the company believes they make significantly more from the data gold they mine from you.

What is the Difference Between Privacy and Security?

In the digital world, security generally refers to how data is protected from loss or attack. Privacy involves the governance of personal data, and your ability to manage that data and understand how it’s used. Both are important aspects of data protection, and robust security protections aid in data privacy.

Data security is an important part of protecting privacy and protects personal data from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, alteration, or loss. Understanding and following UW–Madison’s data security requirements safeguards data throughout its lifecycle. Visit the Cybersecurity website to learn more about requirements and resources for securing university data.

Data Classification

Data classification helps identify the risk associated with data so that appropriate protections can be applied. From a privacy perspective, classification helps individuals understand when data may require additional care in how it is collected, accessed, used, shared, stored, and protected. Visit the Data Classification website to learn more about UW–Madison’s data classification framework.