Data privacy

In the digital world, safeguarding your personal information is essential, especially when using health and social care services online. Protecting your privacy ensures that your sensitive data, such as medical records, health history, and personal details remains secure and is only shared with trusted parties.

The best way to keep your data secure is to follow the guidance from the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) as highlighted in our Staying safe online section of this guide.

It's also important to help people think about the data they give to others online. Here are some tips to help people make more informed choices about the data they give to others:

Privacy policies

Before using any digital service, take time to read the platform’s privacy policy. The privacy policy outlines how your data will be collected, used, and shared. Ensure you understand what information the service requires, why it is needed, and who it might be shared with.

Personal information

Limit the amount of personal information you share online. Only provide necessary details, and be wary of sharing sensitive information like medical history on unsecured or unfamiliar platforms.

Review permissions

When using health or care-related apps, check the permissions they request. Only allow access to information essential for the app’s functionality. For example, an app may request access to your location or health data, but it should only do so if it’s necessary for the service it provides.

Your digital footprint

Your digital footprint is a record of your digital activity. It is created passively (through 'cookies' when you access websites) and actively through the use of social media and any other information you share online.

We've collated some resources to help you think about how to better manage your data privacy online:

Connecting Scotland Learner Pathway: Keep your data safe online

Social media: how to use it safely (NCSC)

Your digital footprint (Barclays Digital Wings)

(free account required)

What is a 'cookie'? (Digital Unite)

Data breaches: guidance for individuals and families (NCSC)

Change your app permissions on Android (Google)

Change app permissions on iOS (Apple)

Change app permissions (Windows)