Why it is important to protect personal data

Protection of personal data concerns everyone. Each time we buy something on-line, travel, use social networks, receive medical treatment, or get a job, we provide enormous volume of personal data. It is accumulated, retained, and processed. Do we know how it is used, who collects it, and why? Are we ready for our medicinal, bank, or any other personal data to be disclosed, by mistake or as a result of criminal acts?