Under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), individuals are granted specific rights that give them greater control over their data. These rights ensure transparency, fairness, and accountability in how organizations collect, use, and manage data. Here’s a quick breakdown of what each of these rights means:
The Right to Be Informed
You have the right to know how and why your data is being used. Organizations must provide clear, accessible information about data collection and processing in their privacy policies. It ensures transparency and helps you make informed decisions about sharing your data.
The Right of Access
You can request access to the personal data an organization holds about you. It includes information about how and why your data is processed and who it’s shared with. It allows you to check if your data is being used lawfully.
The Right to Rectification
If your data is incorrect or incomplete, you can ask for it to be corrected. Organizations must respond to your request and make necessary changes without delay. This helps ensure accuracy and fairness in data handling.
The Right to Erasure (Right to Be Forgotten)
In some instances, you can request the deletion of your data – for example, if it’s no longer needed or was collected unlawfully. Organizations must comply unless there’s a valid legal reason to keep the data. This right empowers you to have more control over your digital footprint.
The Right to Restrict Processing
You can ask an organization to limit how your data is used, for instance, while verifying its accuracy or during a dispute. The data can still be stored but unused until the issue is resolved. It’s a way to pause processing while concerns are addressed.
The Right to Data Portability
This right allows you to receive data in a structured, commonly used, and machine-readable format. You can then transfer it to another service provider or organization. It’s beneficial when switching between platforms or services.
The Right to Object
You can object to your data being processed for specific reasons, such as direct marketing or when processing is based on public or legitimate interest. If you object, the organization must stop processing your data unless it can demonstrate substantial legal grounds to continue. This right gives you more say in how your data is used.
Rights of Automated Decision Making and Profiling
You have the right not to be subject to decisions made solely by automated systems that significantly affect you, such as loan approvals or job screening. You can request human intervention, give your opinion, or challenge the decision. It ensures fairness and accountability in automated processes.
Mary Watson
