Online activity is becoming a larger part of people's life. Collaboration tools are used for business, e-commerce is used for transactions, and social ties endure across a variety of social networks. This societal change was not brought on by the coronavirus pandemic, but it was accelerated in part by it. The issue over data privacy is growing along with the amount of data available online.

This means that careers in data privacy have also seen a boom, as Governments have begun to respond to citizens’ and stakeholders’ demands to regulate data processing by corporates and government agencies themselves. As a result, the intricate link between cybersecurity and data privacy has led to many companies hiring professionals who work within an organizational setting to protect a company's most important data. They also research and understand all data compliance requirements so that an organization remains in proper legal standing. The demand for data privacy expertise among cybersecurity professionals is also being driven by evolving privacy legislations. Having data privacy officers is now also becoming mandatory in order to adhere to the data protection rules and regulations.

A well-paying niche of professionals, who are in demand (which will only increase in the future) is now thus created.

However, merely having an undergraduate degree in this field is not enough in ensuring a career in the field of data privacy. One must have in-depth knowledge about the data protection laws and practices.

In order to get credibility in this field, it is very important that a prospective candidate has necessary certifications.

CIPP/US Exam

The International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP) administers the Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP) examination, which leads to accreditation as a Certified Information Privacy Professional (IAPP). For professionals that manage, handle, and access data, the IAPP offers information privacy certification programmes that are recognised and recognised by companies all around the world.

The IAPP, a non-profit organisation, is the largest and most extensive worldwide information privacy community.

There are four CIPP concentrations, each focused on a specific region.-

1. Asia (CIPP/A)
2. Canada (CIPP/C)
3. Europe (CIPP/E)
4. U.S. private-sector (CIPP/US)

The CIPP/US certification, which is the industry standard for privacy experts worldwide, is highly regarded by leading businesses.

A CIPP/US certificate, which is supported by ANSI/ISO accreditation, increases your earning potential and your chances of getting promoted because it demonstrates that you are well-versed in U.S. privacy laws and regulations.

How to Prepare for the CIPP/US Exam

It is very important that one takes a structured approach in preparing for this exam. Tsaaro Academy has a wonderfully designed training module for the same. A strategy to go about the exam is given below-

1. Stick to the Body of Knowledge and schedule the time in accordance with the Exam Blueprint.

The IAPP doesn't provide test takers much room for speculation because the Body of Knowledge lists every subject covered on the CIPP/US. However, not all subjects or parts are tested to the same extent.

The CIPP/US exam consists of five components; the Exam Blueprint indicates the potential number of questions for each subject. On the IAPP's "Get Certified" website for the CIPP/US, both the Body of Knowledge and the Exam Blueprint are located under "Free materials."

Before beginning, make sure to have the most recent copy of the Body of Knowledge and Test Blueprint because the IAPP often updates exam material.

2. Using materials that are free.

The majority, if not all, of the material on the CIPP/US may be found by reading IAPP's U.S. Private-Sector Privacy book.

But there are a tonne of free resources online if one cannot afford the book or choose not to buy it. IAPP, publications from legal firms, and vendor seminars are a few examples. In order to ensure that all topics are addressed, adhere to the Body of Knowledge.

3. The making of flash cards and group study

Copying new terminology onto flash cards when reading books, articles, websites, etc. will aid in remembering them. The vocabulary of privacy words provided by the IAPP can be utilised for a list of new terms.

A wonderful approach to recall information and comprehend it better is to discuss it with co-workers and colleagues.

4. Use questions to seek clarification

Use sample inquiries to analyse previously studied material and pinpoint any weak points. Look for articles that take a variety of approaches to the topic. All IAPP training courses include sample questions, which are further available in the IAPP Store.

5. Test practice

IAPP Exam practise gives you a sense of how you could do on your certification exam. 90 questions are on practise examinations, which follow the same style as real certification exams. IAPP-selected experts created the questions, some of which have been withdrawn from previous tests. Through the IAPP online store, you may purchase the CIPP/E exam practise test.

6. Timelines

For each test, the IAPP advises spending at least 30 hours studying. 30 hours is adequate for someone with some privacy expertise. But 40–60 hours could be safer for those who have little privacy awareness.

Timeline for the Study

1. 1-2 months before the exam: Using free online resources or by reading U.S. Private-Sector Privacy Review, create an outline that covers every topic on the Body of Knowledge.
2. Two to three weeks prior to the exam date, finish the sample questions. Focus your review on your weaknesses.
3. Make flash cards and review them.
4. Take the CIPP/US exam.

For the CIPP/US exam, it is extremely important that federal laws are also thoroughly studies, and individual provisions and penalties are properly understood.

Conclusion

With a CIPP/US certification, you can demonstrate that you have a solid understanding of the principles and practises of US privacy and data protection law, including jurisdictional laws, enforcement models, fundamental privacy concepts and principals, and legal requirements for handling and transferring data.

Tsaaro Academy has the perfectly tailored CIPP/US training module which, while also being value for money, comprehensively prepares one for the exam and provides ample training and support. By enrolling in this course, one can bolster their hopes of earning the coveted credential and kick-starting or strengthening their career in the realm of data privacy and security.