European Data Protection Supervisor

Definition

The European Data Protection Supervisor (EDPS) is an independent supervisory authority tasked with ensuring the protection of personal data and privacy when EU institutions and bodies process personal information.

Analogy

The EDPS is like a security guard at a concert. Just as the guard ensures that everyone's tickets are valid and no one's privacy is invaded, the EDPS makes sure that all data processing activities by EU institutions respect people's privacy rights.

Related terms

Data Processing: This refers to the collection, manipulation, and management of data. It’s like cooking where you gather ingredients (data), prepare them (manipulate), and finally cook them (manage) to serve a meal (information).

Privacy Rights: These are human rights or constitutional rights related to an individual's privacy. Imagine your bedroom where you have the right to keep things private from others.

Independent Supervisory Authority: An organization operating independently from governments or other organizations to oversee certain activities. Like referees in a football game who ensure fair play but aren't part of any team.