For every application owner, there are some scenarios that are as important as the features or the potential market. It is common practice to collect user information for a multitude of reasons which we will explain below.
As custodian of this information, there is a responsibility to use this data appropriately and keep it secure from misuse/hackers. In addition, the company could be held liable if security policies and procedures are not stated.
Reasons for Data Collection
There are some valid reasons why companies collect user information on their applications and sites.
1. Verify Identity: To verify user identity, personal information can be collected. This could be part of a security measure, age restriction policy or identity theft prevention.
2. Personalize Experience: Data is collected to enhance the user experience. It is used to analyze preferences which will personalize user interaction with the application.
3. Improvements: Data collected can be analyzed to review user interaction on the application. This information can be useful to make improvements to the application.
4. Security: You can collect user data to protect the integrity of your application by making
sure your users are lawful and appropriate.
Data Responsibility
With all this data in your hands, you now have a responsibility to protect your user information and inform them how this data will be handled. There are some reasonable actions you can take to make your users aware that their data is in the right hands and you are taking steps towards keeping it safe.
- Privacy Policy: A privacy policy should be made available to users on the website or application. Most importantly, it should provide users information on the terms of use and security safeguards regarding their data.
- Minimize Collection: Only collect what is necessary for users to access your application. Requesting for unnecessary information could be costly to secure and dangerous in the wrong hands.
- Secure User Data: Take necessary steps to house and secure user data. Consider guidance from information security experts on this matter.
- Communicate: Notify users about information sharing or security incidents. Users should be aware of third-party sharing and data breaches involving their information.
In conclusion, taking the above actions can avoid potential liability that could arise from misuse or comprised user data.
