How Do Websites Use My Data? A Cybersecurity Breakdown for Chicago Businesses
Every time you visit a website, data is being collected — often in ways you don’t realize. From browser activity to location and purchasing habits, this information fuels the internet economy. But how it’s gathered, shared, and protected varies widely — and not always in your favor.
At Black Diamond Solutions, we help Chicago businesses and professionals navigate the risks of data sharing while staying compliant with emerging privacy laws. As a value-added reseller (VAR) and trusted cybersecurity partner, our mission is to help you manage data securely — whether you’re protecting your customers, your employees, or yourself.
What Is Data Collection on Websites?
When you browse a website, it’s normal for that site to collect information like your IP address, device type, location, and user behavior. This can happen through:
- Cookies and session tracking
- Form submissions
- Third-party advertising scripts
- Browser fingerprinting and analytics tools
Some of this data is used to improve your experience — like remembering your shopping cart. But much of it is used for advertising, profiling, or reselling to third parties. Transparency is often lacking, which is where businesses can lose trust with their customers.
How Does Data Sharing Work?
Once websites collect your data, they may share it with outside entities via APIs, cloud integrations, or even unsecured file transfers. While data sharing can power useful insights and improve services, it also creates privacy risks when mishandled.
Data Sharing Methods
- APIs (Application Programming Interfaces)
- Cloud storage & file sharing platforms
- Third-party advertising networks
Risks of Improper Sharing
- Exposure to unauthorized parties
- Regulatory non-compliance (GDPR, CCPA, HIPAA, etc.)
- Reputation damage from leaked or misused data
That’s why Black Diamond Solutions offers solutions to help businesses enforce stronger access controls, implement end-to-end encryption, and create audit trails for every data exchange.
How Should Websites Manage User Data?
Effective data management starts with collecting only what you truly need. From there, businesses should encrypt all stored data, restrict access based on role, and maintain detailed records of what was collected and why.
Best Practices for Businesses:
- Be transparent — explain what you collect and how it’s used
- Give users control to opt-out, delete, or edit their data
- Encrypt all sensitive data at rest and in transit
- Audit third-party integrations and vendors regularly
At Black Diamond Solutions, we guide businesses in building compliant privacy frameworks that align with modern laws and ethical data use — with tools tailored for Chicago’s business community.
Why Data Privacy Matters in 2025
Data privacy isn’t just about compliance — it’s about protecting your reputation and your customers’ trust. With state and international privacy laws evolving fast, businesses that don’t take it seriously risk fines, lawsuits, and brand damage.
Ways to Build Data Trust:
- Publish clear privacy policies on your site
- Conduct regular cybersecurity training
- Use access logging and alerting for sensitive systems
- Work with experts to design a compliant data lifecycle
How Users Can Protect Themselves
While businesses have a responsibility to manage data well, individuals can also take steps to protect their privacy online.
Tips for Individuals:
- Use privacy-focused browsers and ad blockers
- Regularly review your social media and app permissions
- Use a VPN when browsing on public networks
- Read website privacy policies — or work with professionals to interpret them
Take Control of Your Data With Black Diamond Solutions
Whether you’re a business looking to implement better data governance or a user concerned about online tracking, Black Diamond Solutions has the tools and expertise to help. From secure cloud solutions to compliance consulting, we partner with you every step of the way.
Contact us today to protect your business and your customers — before your data falls into the wrong hands.
