The New York State Department of Financial Services, working with the New York State Office of Information Technology Services and other state agencies, published Data Privacy Week messaging urging New Yorkers to take practical steps to protect personal information online under the theme “Take Control of Your Data.” The release highlighted actions for individuals and organizations including tightening privacy settings, using long and unique passwords, enabling multifactor authentication, keeping devices and applications updated, and staying alert to phishing attempts via email, text, or voicemail. It also encouraged limiting data collected and shared by apps and websites, reviewing privacy policies, being mindful of information shared on social media, considering use of a virtual private network, and avoiding sensitive online activity on public Wi‑Fi. DFS linked these consumer steps to its cybersecurity requirements for financial services companies to maintain robust cybersecurity protocols to safeguard personal data. Data Privacy Week begins on January 27 and is framed as a public education effort for consumers and businesses; the announcement also noted New York State’s recognition as a Data Privacy Champion by the National Cybersecurity Alliance and referenced the Child Data Protection Act covering New Yorkers under 18.
New York State Department of Financial Services 2025-01-27
New York State Department of Financial Services joins state agencies urging residents and businesses to secure personal data during Data Privacy Week
The New York State Department of Financial Services, in collaboration with state agencies, issued Data Privacy Week guidance urging New Yorkers to enhance online personal data protection. Recommendations include using strong passwords, enabling multifactor authentication, and being cautious of phishing attempts. The initiative aligns with New York's cybersecurity requirements and highlights the state's recognition as a Data Privacy Champion.