What does "opt-out" mean in the context of consent?

In the context of consent, "opt-out" refers to the ability for individuals to withdraw their consent for data processing once it has been provided. This means that after initially agreeing to the data processing, a person has the right to retract that consent and prevent further use of their data. This allows individuals to have control over their personal information and decide whether they want to continue allowing an organization to process their data.

Understanding "opt-out" is crucial because it highlights the importance of individual agency in data privacy. It ensures that consent is not a one-time event but rather a continuing process, allowing individuals to assess their comfort levels with how their data is managed over time.