What does GDPR stand for?

GDPR stands for General Data Protection Regulation. This regulation is a significant piece of legislation in the European Union that establishes a comprehensive framework for data protection, privacy, and security for individuals within the EU and the European Economic Area. The GDPR is designed to give individuals more control over their personal data and to ensure that organizations handle this data responsibly and transparently.

The term "regulation" is crucial here, as it indicates that GDPR is mandated law that affects organizations operating within the EU, as well as those outside of the EU if they process the personal data of EU residents. The focus on "protection" underscores the regulation’s purpose, which is to safeguard individuals' privacy rights against misuse of their personal information. Understanding this regulation is vital for anyone working in information privacy and data protection, as non-compliance can result in hefty fines and significant legal implications for organizations.