IT Security & Privacy

In a move that underscores South Korea's commitment to data protection, the Personal Information Protection Commission (PIPC) has cracked down on two companies for major security oversights that put users’ personal data at risk. This recent decision, made at the PIPC’s fourth plenary meeting of the year, should serve as a wake-up call to businesses that think data security is an afterthought.

In a move that feels more like a privacy rollercoaster than a tech update, Apple has pulled its Advanced Data Protection (ADP) service from the United Kingdom. If you’re scratching your head wondering why this matters, ADP is a service that provides end-to-end encryption for iCloud data. That means your photos, notes, and other personal files are only accessible by you—unless, of course, someone gets a backdoor key. And that's exactly what the UK government has been asking for.

DeepSeek, the China-based AI chatbot service, is currently navigating a tricky regulatory landscape as privacy concerns grow across the globe. After being hit with privacy scrutiny in South Korea and facing an enforcement action in Italy over data protection practices, DeepSeek is working to address key concerns to avoid further disruptions to its operations.

Cybersecurity is not a new concept for modern organizations. Scheduled password changes, two-factor authentication, and mandatory training sessions are standard practices in most office environments. As computers have become the primary tool for business operations, the data they generate has become one of the most valuable assets across industries.

California State Assembly member, Josh Lowenthal, introduced Assembly Bill (AB) 566 on February 12, 2025, backed by the California Privacy Protection Agency (CPPA). The bill aims to empower Californians with a simple, one-step tool to manage their digital privacy—requiring web browsers and mobile operating systems to provide users with an easy opt-out option for sharing their personal data.

A data breach is never just a technical mishap, it’s a disruption that threatens both trust and personal rights. For those tasked with managing personal data, the Federal Data Protection Act (FADP) lays out clear—but complex—guidelines on how to handle such breaches. Article 24 of the FADP is especially crucial, detailing the responsibilities of data controllers when security incidents occur. Here’s a rundown of how data controllers can navigate these waters, ensuring they’re both compliant and proactive.

The Personal Information Protection Commission (PIPC) is gearing up for a busy 2025. At its second plenary meeting, the Commission outlined its investigative goals for the year, emphasizing both strict oversight of privacy practices and a more supportive, growth-friendly environment for businesses. Whether it’s diving deep into sectors closely tied to people's daily lives or making sure that emerging technologies like AI don’t compromise personal privacy, the PIPC is taking a multifaceted approach to privacy protection this year.