What is the principle of data minimization?

The principle of data minimization emphasizes the importance of collecting only the data that is necessary for a specific purpose. In the context of privacy compliance, this principle helps ensure that organizations do not gather excessive amounts of personal information that may not be relevant or required for their operational needs. By adhering to this principle, organizations can reduce the risk of data breaches, limit their liability, and foster trust with individuals whose data they handle.

This principle aligns with various regulations and frameworks, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which stipulates that organizations must process only the data that is relevant and limited to what is necessary for the intended purposes. As a result, data minimization plays a crucial role in protecting individual privacy rights and maintaining compliance within the broader landscape of data protection laws.