What is data minimization?

Data minimization is a principle grounded in privacy and data protection regulations that emphasizes the importance of limiting the collection of personal data to what is strictly necessary for the intended purpose. This means organizations should collect only the minimal amount of data that is required to perform a specific function, thereby safeguarding individuals' privacy rights and reducing potential risks associated with data breaches or misuse.

By adhering to the principle of data minimization, companies can ensure they are compliant with various data protection laws, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which endorses the idea that excessive data collection increases the likelihood of privacy infringements. This principle not only fosters trust between consumers and organizations but also facilitates a more ethical approach to data handling.

Overall, the focus on collecting only necessary data supports better data governance and aligns with the overall goals of protecting individual privacy in a data-driven environment.