It seems that almost daily we read, view online or TV news that an organization or individual has had an issue with privacy and the possible breech of their respective customer’s personal information. On more than one occasion, I myself have been notified by some large organizations that my personal information has been leaked or stolen. This in turn leads to many phone calls, frustration, fear and doubt that some entity out there is using my information to lead their illegal life style.

We live in an immediate and convenient market where your demographic information influences organizations to make very targeted decisions for their business expansion. If I hear one more time, “can I have your zip code please”, when buying my Rogaine I will scream (any organization out there that has the zip code 12345 in your data base, now you know that it’s me)!

So what can you do to ensure that your customers feel confident and secure about your data collection, business and privacy practices?

You can commit to privacy; it’s good for your business and it’s the right thing to do.

Whether you’re a seasoned privacy advocate, or have just been tasked (aka drew the short straw) to assume the privacy responsibilities for your organization, here are a few resources and appropriate things to think about:

Your Privacy Policy:

If you don’t have one, get one and update it frequently as you change your business objectives. Writing and implementing a good privacy policy will depend on your business vertical and product sets. One size does not fit all, but the key to success is to include all business stake holders in the creation and implementation and ongoing maintenance of your privacy policy, especially your legal team.

Federal Trade Commission:

Several years ago the FTC published a guide to doing business online called “Dot Com Disclosures.” This is a great resource for you to review and implement the appropriate recommendations. You can find a copy of Dot Com Disclosures here: http://www.ftc.gov/opa/2000/05/dotcom.shtm

Privacy Seals and Best Practice Validation:

There are many organizations that will assess your online practices and validate your appropriate behavior. Until recently these solutions were aimed at larger organizations, but in today’s world any organization can demonstrate their commitment to privacy regardless of size.

Here are a couple of organizations that can assist you in your privacy due diligence and appropriate strategies:

TRUSTe – http://www.truste.org/

Better Business Bureau Online – http://www.bbb.org/online/

Online Trust Alliance:

The Online Trust Alliance is an organization that works diligently to foster the elimination of email and internet fraud abuse and cybercrime. They represent over one million businesses and 500 million users worldwide through the company membership, chapters and associated affiliate organizations.

You can learn more about the OTA here: https://www.otalliance.org/

I have illustrated only a sampling of organizations that can shape, influence, create, advise, implement and deliver all things privacy for your organization. There are many more out there for you to consider and explore.

Good luck in your efforts and remember privacy is good for your business - now what’s my zip code again?

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About the Author

David Fowler is the director of email strategy, deliverability and privacy compliance for Lyris. He consults with email marketers to help them get better results from their email programs.

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