A number says a thousand words: Data Privacy Day 2012

Ontario’s Information and Privacy Commissioner, Dr. Ann Cavoukian, recently issued a press release  warning consumers that new technology has the potential to build individually-detailed profiles based on IP addresses, social insurance numbers and even license plates. Her comments highlight a growing trend that the anonymity of personal information is becoming increasingly scarce, especially for online consumers.

The Commissioner’s comments are timely considering that Data Privacy Day  is January 28, 2012, a day when awareness of online privacy and data protection is brought to the forefront. Recognized in Canada, the United States and most of Europe, Data Privacy Day is organized by the National Cyber Security Alliance, who seeks to educate the general public about data privacy and to encourage dialogue about data protection among consumers, businesses and governments.

PCI Security Standards Council Releases Version 2.0 of the PCI Data Security Standard and Payment Application Data Security Standard

On October 28, 2010, the PCI Security Standards Council released version 2.0 of the PCI Data Security Standard (DDS) and the Payment Application Data Security Standards (PA-DSS) reflecting input from the Council’s global stakeholders.  This latest version, effective January 1, 2011, is designed to provide greater clarity and flexibility to facilitate improved understanding of the requirements and eased implementation for merchants.  A summary of the changes can be found here.  The standards, detailed summary of changes and supporting documentation can be found here.

The PCI Security Standards Council was formed by the major payment card brands American Express, Discover Financial Services, JCB International, MasterCard Worldwide and Visa Inc. to provide a transparent forum in which all stakeholders can provide input into the ongoing development, enhancement and dissemination of the DSS, PIN Transaction Security (PTS) requirements and the PA-DSS.