Demystifying the common GDPR Myths

Published on: 23 October 2018 Last Updated on: 15 November 2021

As one of the most common discussions around the internet today, data protection has seen huge changes in 2018. Indeed, the introduction of the European Union’ General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) program is making companies finally face up to their corporate responsibilities. While this has been more than a long time coming, it has not been dealt with well for the most part in the recent decades.

This step from the EU is a merciful way to help make the regulation change as soon as possible. However, like all major regulatory changes, some half-truths and full-blown myths have emerged. What are some of the common tall tales told about GDPR that you need to look out for?

1. GDPR is just a mechanism to fine companies!

Absolute hogwash, to put it bluntly. GDPR is a mechanism to send data protection back to the people who the data actually is about, not the company. A company can be fined as much as £17m, or 4% of their annual turnover, by the GDPR. However, this isn’t some committee looking to pay for their holidays and Christmas party: this is here to stop citizens being ripped off any longer by companies.

2. GDPR fines are handed out without warning

We don’t know where these kinds of ideas come from, but it’s just not true in any capacity at all. fines in GDPR will be proportionate to the issue at hand: a small company with a GDPR breach will be fined a reasonable amount. Also, you are given two – almost three – warnings about GDPR compliance failure.

You won’t just find a team of armed guards in EU flags turning up, don’t worry!

3.GDPR came from nowhere

For years, GDPR was reported on and discussed at length. It was not a surprise. Companies were given the best part of a full calendar year to get their systems into spec before the May 2018 roll-out.

Companies that missed the GDPR call-out would simply have not been paying attention to data protection policy changes. This was not a surprise for anyone who followed the industry. If you were a business that did not see GDPR coming, then we recommend that you spend some more time looking at European law changes: this was not a surprise!

4. GDPR is constraining businesses

Again, not true – GDPR merely makes businesses take responsibility for the data that they have. GDPR is making it harder for consent to be presumed, and instead, it has to be clearly provided. The days of pre-ticked boxes for consent are gone. It’s also going to be much easier for people to withdraw their consent if they so choose.

This is not constraining businesses, it’s merely making a part of the web that was thoroughly amateur in its people protection a bit more stringent in the way that you think and acts like a business.

5. GDPR was not necessary

This is also quite untrue: GDPR was absolutely necessary. It’s simply putting in place a foundational program that reinforces key terms such as the Data Protection Act, and also makes companies more likely to care for the data they hold instead of using it recklessly.

This myth, that GDPR is not necessary and was just added in to add more ‘red tape’ is not the case at all. All of the data breach stories of the recent years would have been almost impossible under GDPR: in a bid to give people back power over their own data, GDPR was essential.

GDPR compliance is a fixed process

This has been around for some time and is not the case at all. While it may have rolled out in 2018, the EU is fully aware that getting ready for it will take some time and effort. While the two years to get ready was more than enough, with ICO regulation kicking in as of May ’18, there is going to be change to it as time goes on.

This is not like the Y2K bug; out of all the painful misconceptions about GDPR, this may be among the worst. You might not like the need to be more specific with data regulation, but GDPR is a good thing – the myths make it sound like the end of the world. All it is, in reality, is an end to lawlessness in data protection and regulation.

Final Take Away

Hence, these are some of the crucial facts that you have to take care of while you want to improve your business in the correct order at the correct point in time. Do not make your choices in grey while you want to develop your current business in the right direction.

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Deciphering the Myths About Home Security Cameras

Security cameras are the in-thing today. They are used in many homes as a way of enhancing security. However, despite the fact that they are common; there are many wrong perceptions about them. Surveillance cameras usually play a key role to fortify your house. These home security cameras can be installed in either the indoor or outdoor areas of your home. They are used to capture the photos and footages of possible intruders. Since home security cameras are significant in safeguarding your home, you must know the misconceptions about them. This will enable you not to pay due regard to these misconceptions. By doing this, the effectiveness of your home security system will not be affected. Here are six myths about home security cameras; All Security Cameras Serve the Same Purpose: Many people think that all security cameras are the same, so they can serve the same purpose. As asserted by Tech Web Space, this is not true. There are many types of security cameras. They all work differently. Each of them is designed to fulfill a distinct security need. For instance; there are dome, bullet, and IR day/night cameras. Bullet and dome cameras can only be installed in indoor areas, while IR day/night cameras can only be put in outdoor areas. So, a dome camera is effective to monitor your staff; while an IR day/night camera is effective to prevent burglary. Also, IP security cameras can record a video of the ongoing activities of an intruder; while other normal surveillance cameras cannot. There is no security camera which can fulfill two roles at the same time. So, you should know your major security problem which you intend to address. With this problem in mind, you can then choose the most appropriate type of security camera. Security Cameras Are Super Heroes: When some people purchase a security camera, they tend to think that they have solved all their security issues. They believe that their houses will be fortified by the virtue of them possessing a security camera system. They equate home surveillance cameras to superheroes in regard to matters of security. This is a very wrong perception. As much as you buy a security camera, you should still take other appropriate measures to safeguard your home. Security cameras can be limited in discharging their functions. For instance; bullet and dome camera types will not function well in dim lighting. Also, when you don’t position your camera well; you may create a blind spot. This blind spot will give a leeway which will allow criminals to operate in. It Is Very Easy to Install a Security Camera: You cannot learn to install a security camera after watching some few DIY tutorials. Installing a security camera is a difficult task that requires some specific skills. You will have to be equipped with basic scientific knowledge. 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Home Security Cameras Are Expensive: It is only in the past ages when home security cameras were a reserve of the rich. Nowadays, surveillance cameras are affordable to all and sundry. There are many security companies today. This has enhanced market competitiveness. Different companies are using different strategies to have an edge over each other. This has significantly reduced the costs of security cameras. Moreover, their operation and installation costs are cheap. Home Security Cameras Are Only Used to Keep Off Intruders: Apart from preventing the entry of intruders, surveillance cameras can serve others more purposes. For instance; you can use them to monitor your employees in your servicing business. You can also use them to check on your kids’ activities when you are away from home. Though security cameras are mainly used to prevent crime, they can improve your general living standards. With them, your daily tasks will be simpler and more effectively done. Conclusion: All in all, surveillance cameras will grant you immense assistance in safeguarding your home. They will keep off intruders, reduce crime rates and, prevent robbery and burglary. Therefore, you should not allow these myths to restrain you from owning one. Read Also: How To Improve Workplace Security WiFi Security: Mediocrity To Excellence Why DRM Is the New Standard for Document Security

Why Should you Consider Security Doors for Your House?

Each one of us is concerned about the safety of our family and our house and that is why we believe in having security doors in our properties in Melbourne. While there is a wide range of steps that might be taken for improving the security of your house, buying these types of doors is significant. But, you can’t just go to the market and buy these kinds of doors. There are certain important things which you need to consider before setting out to buy them. These things are: Not all the doors are equally created- you would wish to conduct proper research before purchasing them. You should try to look for the ones which are made with welded stainless steel or even iron. They should have tamper-resistant features and high-quality locks as well as strong hinges. You can also go for customized doors which are designed especially for your customers’ houses. These doors would not just make your house safe and secure, but they would even deter the would-be burglars who would know that your property is secured very well. Read also: Tips to an Adjusting and Fitting Bi-Fold Doors You do not need to sacrifice the appearance of your house for security reasons- while you think of the security doors in properties in Melbourne, you might think of the ugly, clunky ones which do not look nice at all. But, if you are going to buy them, you will find a lot of options when it is about style. Today, homeowners are able to find them in a wide range of colors, designs as well as finishes. For an appealing look, you may go for customized iron doors which are designed to perfectly matching the style of your property. Do not depend on the internet for this purpose- the internet is a wonderful place for shopping. But, it should not be the only source or even the primary source for your research. Once you have conducted some research on the internet and have got a general idea about the features you wish to have on your door, you should visit a couple of firms. Look for different models, obtain the price quotes and then take any decision. Even if you decide on buying them online, it’s always better to have a look at them in person. Buy them from a firm that also offers the process of installation- you would be probably installing them on your own. But, you might not be able to do it on your own that well. Also, poorly installed Buy them from a firm that also offers the process of installation- you would be probably installing them on your own. But, you might not be able to do it on your own that well. Also, poorly installed security doors would not do what they are expected to do in properties in Melbourne. A professional would definitely do a much better job of conducting the process of installation. He would ensure that the frame of the door is installed properly and also that it fits in snugly. Employing an expert for doing this job would offer you great peace of mind. Buying security doors is not at all difficult for homeowners in Melbourne. But, you need to take the decision carefully. Read More: Buying Your First Home In St. Louis Before You Forget : Things You Need To Consider Before Windows Replacement Secrets To The Perfect Bedroom Light

Your IP Has Been Temporarily Blocked – How To Unblock It?

Although it doesn't happen often, the "your IP has been temporarily blocked" warning will keep you from visiting a website. The error could show if you've attempted to log in too frequently or if you've broken the site's terms of service by uploading prohibited information, for example. Therefore, to learn how to prevent this issue from happening again, read this guide post till the end. Here, you will learn ten different ways to fix this issue. How To Fix The “Your IP Has Been Temporarily Blocked” Issue? To prevent the “your IP has been temporarily blocked” error from happening again, here are the steps you can take: 1. Just Wait A website frequently temporarily blocks IP addresses. For instance, if you tried to log in too many times using invalid credentials, you may be barred or banned for 24 hours before being allowed to try again. You can either wait a day or see the website's terms of service for details now only. 2. Use VPN Websites may restrict your IP address as a result of a country ban, as was already indicated. Use a VPN to conceal your IP address in order to get around such a limitation. You will be able to access the website since it will seem as though you are visiting from somewhere else. Free VPNs are available, however commercial services are more likely to ensure that your IP address is hidden. You will be able to view the website that has blocked your access after you sign up for a VPN. Check out our list of the top 10 VPN service providers if you're unclear about how to choose a VPN service. 3. Properly Configure Your Network And Mail Servers Incorrectly placed letters or digits might potentially be the reason your IP address is blocked. Your network and mail server need to be configured correctly because of this. Contact the blacklist to get your name taken off of it. 4. Connect To A Different Wi-Fi Network You should also think about joining a fresh Wi-Fi network. A new IP address is generated while joining a Wi-Fi network. This may be a short workaround to enable you to view the website to which access has been limited. 5. Check If They Blacklisted Your IP Image Source: thryv.com Many websites are members of IP address blacklists that are open to the public. These lists are frequently gathered from well-known spammers, and banning the addresses can assist website owners to keep unwanted visitors away and stop spam abuse. However, it's possible that one of these blacklists listed your IP address by mistake. The good news here is that you can check your IP Address on a website called WhatIsMyIPAddress.com. If it shows up on their lists after entering your IP address is automatically detected, the website will notify you. 6. Update Your OS If your computer hasn't received any updates in a while, malware might infect it and restrict your IP address. You may improve your computer's usefulness and security by upgrading it. If you use a Windows computer, here’s what you should know: First, go to Settings. Here, choose Update & Security. Then click on Windows Updates to see whether any updates are available for installation. If you use a Mac computer, then here’s what you should do: First, open System Preferences. Then, select the App Store. Finally, select Show Updates. Wait a day after the upgrade is complete before attempting to access the website that has restricted you. 7. Try Detecting Malware The problem regarding “why your IP has been banned” can stem from various malware that might have entered your system. This error is typically shown when your IP address has been compromised and your system is now transmitting spam, or even launching DoS attacks in the background. Therefore, you should scan your computer using antivirus software. To get the best internet security, I recommend using premium antivirus software that always runs in the background. Here, if you're using Windows, follow the steps explained below: First, click on Start and type "Security". When Windows Security appears in the search results, click on it. After selecting Virus & threat protection, do a Quick scan. 8. Change To A New IP Address If you want to, you can shift to a new IP address by temporarily changing it using your VPN software. Do this if your IP has been banned. To do so on a Windows computer, follow the steps below: First, open the Control Panel by searching for it on the Search bar from the Start menu. Then, click on Network and Internet. Here, click on Network Connections. Now, you will get a list of all the network adapters you have paired with. Select the one you are using and want to change its IP. To do so on an Apple computer, follow the steps below: Navigate to System Preferences. Here, open Network. Now, click on Advanced Button. Then, click on the TCP/ICP menu. Here, you need to add a new TCP/IP configuration. To do so, click on the + sign here. Then, select Manual and enter the new IP address. 9. Use Proxy Servers That Are Free If you don't want to spend money on a VPN, you can use a free proxy server. A proxy server is a server that stands between an internet user's request and the website or page they are trying to access. Your IP address is concealed by the proxy, enhancing your privacy and independence. Keep in mind, though, that a lot of websites and services are aware of proxy servers and will ban the IP addresses of public proxy servers. You will be informed that "the owner of this website has blacklisted your IP address" if they catch you. Remember that you should never browse with proxy servers when providing personal information. 10. Blame The Webmaster If you searched the terms of service of the website for information on why your IP address was blocked but couldn't find anything, you may contact the webmaster — particularly if it's a tiny website that interacts with its users frequently. If your IP address is being blocked, the webmaster can tell you why it’s being restricted and how to fix it. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): People using the internet have asked various questions similar to “why is my IP address blocked” and “unblock IP address”. Here are my answers to their queries: Q1. Why Did Instagram Block My IP Address? Ans: Instagram might have blocked your IP address because they might have blacklisted your IP address. This can happen because you might have posted content that might have violated their terms and conditions. If this is not the case, then you might have a problem with your Internet Service Provider (ISP). Q2. How Long Does An IP Ban Last? Ans: On Instagram, an IP ban might last anywhere between 24 hours to 48 hours. This depends on the severity of your actions. If it's pretty severe, then Instagram might block you permanently. Q3. Why Did Cloudflare Block My IP Address? Ans: Sometimes, many of the websites that we visit can contain harmful malicious content in them. If Cloudflare detects this, it can block your IP address from accessing that website. Unblock Your IP Now! There are various reasons why you might see the “your IP has been temporarily blocked” error. It can be because your IP has been blocked by the website, or there are various problems with your ISP. To fix this issue, you can either wait for some time or use VPN software to change your IP. In addition, you can also use free proxy servers, or contact the webmaster if you wish to. If you have any similar questions regarding this that you would like an answer to, you can reach out to me by commenting down below! Read Also: 5 Tips to Improve Your Internet Privacy Will The Internet Become A Commodity? Top 7 Torrent Applications with VPN Support

Demystifying the common GDPR Myths

1. GDPR is just a mechanism to fine companies!