In today’s hyper-connected world, data privacy has become a critical issue as governments, corporations, and apps collect vast amounts of personal information, often without users' full understanding or consent. From social media platforms to smart devices, nearly every digital interaction leaves behind a data trail that can be monitored, analyzed, and even sold. While this data can improve user experiences, it also poses serious risks to individual privacy and security. In many cases, users are unaware of how much information they are sharing or who has access to it. This lack of transparency leads to concerns about mass surveillance, targeted manipulation, identity theft, and loss of autonomy. High-profile scandals like the Facebook–Cambridge Analytica case have shown how personal data can be exploited for political or commercial gain. As surveillance technologies become more sophisticated, especially with AI and facial recognition, the need for robust data protection laws, ethical tech practices, and informed digital citizenship becomes urgent. Safeguarding privacy in the digital age isn’t just about protecting personal information—it’s about preserving freedom, trust, and democratic values in an increasingly monitored society.