# Lesson Notes — Data Collection & Data Privacy

- Link: https://doss.academy/course-1-computer-literacy/unit-11-data-information-awareness/lesson-1-data-collection-data-privacy/lesson-notes-c1u11l1/
- Published: 2026-10-19T12:12:58-04:00
- Author: matthew.leffler@jefferson.kyschools.us

Course 1: Computer Literacy / Unit 11: Data & Information Awareness / Lesson 1: 
Data Collection & Data Privacy

## Lesson overview

Websites, apps, and devices collect **user data** all the time. Some of it is needed
to make the service work, and some of it is used to learn about you. **Data privacy**
is about your right to know what is collected and to have some control over it.

## How data is collected

 * **Cookies** are small files a website stores in your browser to remember you,
   for example to keep you signed in or hold items in a cart. Some cookies are used
   for **tracking** your activity across many sites.
 * **Telemetry** is information that software and devices automatically send back
   about how they are used, such as crashes, settings, and features you use.
 * **Analytics** tools count and study how people use a site or app, such as which
   pages are most popular.
 * Accounts, forms, location services, and microphone or camera permissions also
   give away information.

## Why companies want it

**Targeted advertising** uses what a company knows about you to show ads you are
more likely to click. Many services are free because your data and attention are
what the company sells.

## Reading a privacy policy

A **privacy policy** explains what data a company collects and what it does with
it. You do not have to read every word. Look for answers to these questions:

 * What information do they collect?
 * Who do they share it with?
 * How long do they keep it?
 * How can I see, change, or delete my data?

## Taking control

To **opt out** means choosing not to take part in some kind of data collection. 
You can:

 * Adjust cookie choices when a site asks, and decline the ones that are not needed.
 * Review app permissions on your phone and turn off ones an app does not need.
 * Use the ad and privacy settings in your accounts.
 * Think before you share. Data you never provide cannot be collected.

## Check your understanding

 1. What is the difference between a cookie and telemetry?
 2. Why might a free app collect a lot of data?
 3. Pick one app you use. What permissions does it have, and does it need all of them?

Use this lesson’s Key Terms page to build your glossary.