General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

Definition

The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a comprehensive data protection law that came into effect in May 2018, aimed at enhancing individuals' control over their personal data and simplifying the regulatory environment for international business. This regulation sets guidelines for the collection, processing, and storage of personal information of individuals within the European Union, ensuring that data privacy is maintained and that individuals have rights concerning their data.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. GDPR applies not only to organizations based in the EU but also to any entity that processes personal data of EU residents, regardless of location.
2. Under GDPR, organizations must obtain explicit consent from individuals before processing their personal data and must provide clear information about how that data will be used.
3. The regulation includes strict penalties for non-compliance, with fines reaching up to €20 million or 4% of the company's global annual revenue, whichever is higher.
4. Individuals have the right to request access to their personal data held by organizations and can demand corrections or deletions if the data is inaccurate or no longer necessary.
5. GDPR emphasizes transparency and accountability in data handling practices, requiring organizations to implement robust security measures to protect personal information.

Review Questions

• How does GDPR empower individuals regarding their personal data?
  • GDPR empowers individuals by granting them several rights over their personal data, such as the right to access their data, the right to request corrections or deletions, and the right to restrict processing. This regulation ensures that individuals are informed about how their data is being used and gives them control over their personal information. By requiring organizations to obtain explicit consent before processing personal data, GDPR enhances individuals' ability to manage their privacy effectively.
• Discuss the implications of GDPR for businesses operating internationally.
  • GDPR has significant implications for businesses operating internationally as it requires them to comply with strict data protection standards when handling personal data of EU residents. This means that companies outside of the EU must ensure they have mechanisms in place to protect personal data if they wish to engage with EU customers. Non-compliance can lead to hefty fines, making it crucial for businesses to adapt their data handling practices and ensure transparency in how they collect and use personal information.
• Evaluate how GDPR impacts professional ethics in digital media regarding user consent and data privacy.
  • GDPR fundamentally shifts the landscape of professional ethics in digital media by placing a strong emphasis on user consent and data privacy. It mandates that professionals must prioritize transparency and respect for individuals' rights when handling personal information. As a result, ethical considerations around informed consent become paramount; digital media practitioners must ensure users fully understand what they are consenting to when providing their personal information. This has led to a more ethical approach towards user engagement in digital platforms, fostering trust and accountability in online interactions.

Related terms

Personal Data: Any information relating to an identified or identifiable individual, such as names, email addresses, phone numbers, and IP addresses.

Data Processor: A person or entity that processes personal data on behalf of the data controller, typically a company or organization that determines the purposes and means of processing personal data.

Data Subject Rights: Rights granted to individuals under the GDPR, including the right to access, rectify, erase, restrict processing, and port their personal data.