'Book Review: Breaking into data privacy – A practical guide to protecting trust'

Alabi’s strength lies in his ability to simplify complex ideas without diluting their significance. Concepts such as data controllers and processors, data minimization, and cross-border data transfers are explained in clear, relatable language. Instead of relying on abstract definitions, he uses everyday scenarios, marketing teams collecting excessive data, developers storing sensitive information carelessly, or organisations retaining data unnecessarily, to illustrate how privacy risks emerge in real life.

The book also situates data privacy within a global legal framework, referencing standards such as the General Data Protection Regulation while making them accessible to readers with little or no legal background. This approach is particularly useful for audiences in developing countries, where awareness of such regulations is still evolving.

Beyond theory, Breaking Into Data Privacy doubles as a career manual. Alabi provides a structured roadmap for those looking to enter the field, outlining roles ranging from privacy analysts to data protection officers and the skills required to succeed. He emphasises that one does not need a background in law or technology to build a career in privacy, a point that broadens the book’s appeal to young professionals and mid-career switchers.

Practical guidance is one of the book’s major highlights. Readers are taken through steps such as building a privacy-focused résumé, gaining experience through volunteer work or self-led projects, and preparing for interviews. The author’s insistence on “building in public”, sharing one’s learning journey, and engaging with professional communities reflects a modern approach to career growth.

Equally compelling is the emphasis on mentorship. Drawing from his personal experience, Alabi underscores the importance of guidance and community in navigating the field. His reflections add a human touch to the book, making it not just instructional but also motivational.

Another notable aspect of the work is its forward-looking perspective. The author explores emerging issues such as artificial intelligence, data monetization, and global data transfers, highlighting the growing complexity of privacy in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. He warns that while technology continues to advance, the ethical questions surrounding data use remain critical.

However, the book’s simplicity, while one of its greatest strengths, may also limit its appeal to seasoned professionals seeking in-depth legal or technical analysis. Much of the content is introductory, designed to ease newcomers into the field rather than challenge experts. Yet, this does not diminish its value; rather, it reinforces its purpose as an entry-level guide.

What ultimately sets Breaking Into Data Privacy apart is its balance between practicality and purpose. It does not merely explain what data privacy is; it explains why it matters. In doing so, it elevates the conversation from compliance to responsibility.

For Nigeria and other developing economies, where digital adoption is accelerating but regulatory awareness remains uneven, the book is particularly significant. It provides not only knowledge but also direction, encouraging a new generation of professionals to see privacy as both a career path and a public good.

In a world where trust is increasingly fragile, Alabi’s message is clear: protecting data is about protecting people. That message resonates far beyond the pages of this book, making it a worthwhile read for anyone seeking to understand and participate in the future of the digital age.