Personal data: news, tips and simple steps to protect your privacy

Personal data affects everything we do online and offline. On this tag page you'll find news, analysis, and easy advice about how your name, photos, health info and location can be used — and misused. We cover stories that matter in Africa, from government records and corporate breaches to social media privacy and legal fights over data.

Why personal data matters in Africa

Governments, banks, telcos and apps collect huge amounts of data. That can make services faster, but it also creates risks: identity theft, targeted scams, misuse of voter rolls, or leaks of sensitive health records. Recent reporting on issues like political figures, public service failures, and tech rollouts shows how data problems can have real social and political effects. Knowing how data is handled helps you spot risks and ask the right questions.

Quick steps you can take today

Protecting your personal data doesn’t need to be hard. Start with small, practical moves: use strong, unique passwords and a password manager; turn on two-factor authentication for email and social accounts; update your phone and apps so security fixes are applied; and be careful about public Wi‑Fi — use a trusted VPN when you must. Review app permissions and remove access to your camera, mic or contacts if an app doesn't need them.

Watch out for phishing. Scammers often send messages that look official to steal passwords or bank details. Pause before clicking links or sharing codes. If someone asks for a password or payment over chat, call the company directly using a number from their official website.

Think before you share. Photos, location check-ins and personal details you post today can be copied and reused later. Limit what you post publicly, and check privacy settings on social platforms. For sensitive topics — health, finance, legal matters — consider keeping details off public profiles.

Know your rights. Several African countries now have data protection laws and regulators. If your data is mishandled, you can often file a complaint with a national regulator or demand access to records held about you. We report on legal developments and enforcement actions so you can stay informed about how those rights work in practice.

Follow our coverage. On Continental Scout Daily we publish reports, explainers and practical guides tied to personal data issues across the continent. Expect stories about breaches, policy changes, court cases, and how businesses handle customer data — plus clear takeaways you can use.

If you want real changes, start with simple habits and push for better transparency from companies and public institutions. Protecting personal data is partly personal and partly political — and staying informed is the best first step.