Glossary > Privacy > Data Protection > Data Minimization

Data Minimization Principle

Data minimization is the practice of only collecting, processing, and storing the minimum amount of personal data necessary for a specific purpose.

Example #1

For example, when signing up for a newsletter, a company only requests your email address and name, rather than asking for additional personal information like your address or phone number.

Example #2

In a job application, a company may only ask for relevant information such as work experience and educational background, omitting unnecessary details like marital status or political beliefs.

Misuse

Misuse of data minimization could involve a company collecting excessive personal data beyond what is needed for a specific purpose. For instance, a social media platform requesting access to users' contacts, location data, and browsing history when only basic information is required for account creation. This misuse can lead to privacy risks, data breaches, and potential exploitation of individuals' sensitive information.

Benefits

Adhering to the data minimization principle helps to reduce the risk of data breaches, enhances privacy protection, and increases consumer trust. By limiting the amount of personal data collected and stored, organizations can lower the impact of a potential breach and mitigate the misuse of sensitive information.

Conclusion

Data minimization is crucial for safeguarding individuals' privacy rights, preventing data misuse, and promoting trust in businesses and online services. By respecting the principle of data minimization, organizations demonstrate a commitment to protecting consumer data and operating in a transparent and responsible manner.

Last Modified: 4/30/2024