The umask command can be used to specify default permissions on files you create. It also can be used to report on a file's current defaults. Here are some examples.
Explanation of what the octal digits mean
0 - don't restrict any permissions
1 - restrict execute permissions
2 - restrict write permissions
4 - restrict read permissions
Report current umask setting
# umask
Provides complete access to every file you create on the system to everyone.
# umask 000
Provides complete access to you and your group. The others (world) are excluded.
# umask 007
Provides complete access to you but limits group and others to read and execution.
# umask 022