LGBT+ and Privacy Protection
Keeping your personal information private is becoming harder than ever in a connected online world. The LGBT+ community has unique privacy concerns, and a breach of privacy can have personal, professional, economic, and social impacts.
Although a lot has changed in the public’s attitude towards the LGBT+ community, there is still stigmatization that can occur for many lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people around the world.
Protecting your privacy is one of the best ways to avoid any of the issues that can arise from a breach of data. You can consult with an experienced legal professional to ensure that your personal data and legal rights are fully protected.
Why Privacy Matters for LGBT+
It’s your right to decide how your personal data is used and shared by others. Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender individuals must be able to choose who they can share information about their private lives and sexual orientation with.
Having sexual orientation and other personal information disclosed through a data breach can lead to the loss of employment, discrimination within your community, and harm relationships with family or friends.
For some, the threats to physical safety can exist, making it even more important that they control their privacy. Many people still choose to keep their sexual orientation and family life private.
LGBT+ Privacy Risks in an Online World
The Internet offers resources for the LGBT+ community. Many people can connect with others who struggle with issues related to their sexual identity. Online groups can meet in person, giving people access to support they might otherwise not have.
Many LGBT+ youth have used the Internet as a way to access information related to health, state and federal laws, and social issues that impact their communities.
The growing use of social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook give the LGBT+ community ways to connect with like-minded individuals around the world.
These and other online platforms must provide a way for users to protect the privacy of their data. Users can choose what they share online, but hacks and other security breaches can cause some data to be made public.
Many companies research job candidates online when hiring, and it’s legal in many states for a business to fire an individual based on their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Keeping your data private can protect your ability to obtain and maintain employment. It can protect LGBT+ individuals from the risk of harassment and safety threats.
Protecting Your Privacy and Legal Rights
The unique privacy concerns of the LGBT+ community highlight the importance of privacy protection in all areas of life, including healthcare, family law, and employment.
Having access to information, resources, and support specific to the LGBT+ community offers a wide range of benefits. But keeping your privacy safe is critical in order to protect yourself and those you love.
Working with an attorney can help you understand your legal rights in keeping your privacy safe.
A breach of privacy is a violation that can have lasting effects on your personal and professional life.
Whether you’re involved in a family law case or have other legal concerns, you have options available to you to opt out of giving others access to personal information.
Understanding the privacy risks that affect LGBT+ individuals ensures that you avoid these issues while having the power to determine who can access and use your data.