20-22 - How to Safeguard your Personal Information



HOW TO SAFEGUARD YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION

 

The purpose of this newsletter is to inform Department personnel of the many outlets that contain personal information and how to mediate and reduce the risk of having that information get into the wrong hands.

Many times we overlook the following areas that the public can access our personal information:   

  • Zillow
  • White pages
  • Credit card applications
  • School websites
  • Property tax forms
  • The use of public Wi-Fi
  • Veteran affairs
  • Junk mail
  • Cell phones
  • Tagging photos on Facebook
  • Daily services requesting personal information (gym, dentist, mechanic, etc.)
  • Google
  • Family tree websites

Being aware of these entities and the personal information the public can access from these sites, may help prevent potential violent activity if a perpetrator were to learn the location of law enforcement officers’ residences.

It is beneficial for Department personnel to explore services that are available online to remove as much personal information on the web as possible.  It is essential that each individual be responsible for protecting their privacy and that of their family members.

ALADS and PPOA websites can help provide guidance for current members. 

California Government Codes 6254.21 and 6254.24 make it possible for sworn law enforcement officers and government officials to request their personal information to be deleted from public information databases.

For further information please see attached form:

Deputy’s Guide Mitigate Impact of Data Leak #BlueLeaks.

In addition, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Special Bulletin Digital Hygiene, provides tips and advice for Department personnel.

If you have any questions, please email Field Operations Support Services at [REDACTED TEXT]