Privacy best practices for 2025

As more of our business is conducted online, privacy and security become essential to long‑term success. According to the U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the internet allows businesses of all sizes to reach new markets and work more efficiently, but theft of digital information has become the most commonly reported fraud. Every business that uses the internet is responsible for creating a culture of security that builds customer trust.

Core privacy and security practices

The FCC offers straightforward guidance for small businesses. Here are some of the most important practices to adopt in 2025:

• Train employees in security principles: Set policies for strong passwords and appropriate internet use, and outline rules for handling sensitive data.
• Protect information, computers and networks: Keep machines up to date with the latest security software and patches, schedule scans after updates and install updates as soon as they become available.
• Use firewalls: Enable your operating system’s built‑in firewall or install reputable firewall software to prevent unauthorised access.
• Secure mobile devices: Create a mobile device action plan that includes password protection and encryption, and addresses payment and credit card security.
• Back up data regularly: Store backups off‑site or in the cloud and test them periodically to ensure they can be restored.

Beyond the basics

As your organisation matures, consider privacy by design. This means embedding privacy into your products and processes from the outset rather than bolting it on later. Document your data flows and limit the collection of personal information to what is necessary. Transparency—clearly explaining how you use and protect data—builds lasting customer trust.