Which law provides guidelines for the processing of personal data in the EU?

The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) establishes comprehensive guidelines for the processing and movement of personal data within the European Union (EU). Enacted in May 2018, the GDPR is designed to enhance individuals' control over their personal data and unify data protection laws across Europe. It outlines key principles of data processing, including transparency, fairness, and accountability, and sets forth the rights of individuals regarding their data, such as the right to access, rectify, erase, and object to the processing of their personal information.

Furthermore, the GDPR imposes strict requirements on organizations that process personal data, including obtaining consent, notifying authorities and individuals in the event of breaches, and appointing Data Protection Officers in certain cases. These regulations not only impact businesses operating within the EU but also extend to organizations outside the EU that handle the data of EU residents, reflecting the GDPR's reach and significance in the realm of data privacy and protection.

In contrast, the other laws mentioned primarily pertain to specific sectors or regions: HIPAA addresses health information privacy in the United States, CCPA governs consumer data privacy in California, and FERPA focuses on student educational records in the United States. Therefore, the GDPR is the correct choice for guidelines on personal data processing in the