Cyber Conduct
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Cyber Conduct4 min·Beginner

Privacy vs Public Information

Why information being publicly accessible does not automatically make every use of it appropriate.

Information can be publicly accessible without being appropriate to collect, combine, republish or use for any purpose you choose.

For example, a person's name, photograph, workplace or social-media profile may be visible to others, but that does not automatically mean they have agreed to have the information compiled into a profile, used to target them or shared in a different context.

Consider context, purpose and potential harm. Information that seems harmless on its own can become much more sensitive when combined with other details such as a home address, location history, family information or daily routine.

Respect reasonable boundaries when using information about other people. If you need information for a legitimate purpose, collect only what is necessary and handle it responsibly.

When your own information is exposed, review what is publicly visible, remove unnecessary information where possible and strengthen account and privacy settings.

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