Unlock the essentials of India’s Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 with a quick guide to crucial definitions. From data principals to personal data processing, grasp the terminology for effective compliance and data protection.
In a rapidly digitizing world, safeguarding personal information has become paramount. Many countries have established data protection regulations, with General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the European Union and the Personal Data Protection Act 2012 in Singapore being prominent examples. In line with global standards, India has introduced its Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023, effective from August 11, 2023, to uphold privacy, rights, and data security.
Determining the applicability of the DPDP Act to operations involving employees, customers, suppliers, and stakeholders is a critical responsibility for businesses. Notably, obtaining consent from data principals, specifying the purpose of data usage, is a fundamental requirement.
This article aims to demystify the key definitions outlined in the Data Protection Act to facilitate easy comprehension.
What is Data?
Data encompasses a collection of information, facts, concepts, opinions, or instructions intended for human or automated communication, interpretation, or processing.
Reference – Section 2(h)
What is Personal Data?
Personal data pertains to any information concerning an individual.
Reference – Section 2(t)
Who is Data Principal?
A data principal refers to the individual to whom the personal data relates.
Reference – Section 2(j)
Who is Data Fiduciary?
A data fiduciary can be an individual or entity entrusted with handling and processing personal data in a lawful manner. This includes determining both the purpose and methods of data processing.
Reference – Section 2(i)
Who is Data Processor?
A data processor is an entity or person engaged in processing personal data on behalf of a data fiduciary.
Reference – Section 2(k)
Who is Consent Manager?
A consent manager is an individual or entity registered with the board. They serve as a single point of contact for data principals, managing their consent regarding the processing of their personal data.
Reference – Section 2(g)
What is Personal Data Breach?
Concerning personal data, a breach entails unauthorized processing, accidental disclosure, acquisition, sharing, use, alteration, destruction, or loss of access that compromises confidentiality, integrity, or availability.
Reference – Section 2(u)
What is Personal Data Processing?
Personal data processing refers to a range of operations or actions performed on personal data. These actions can be either fully automated or partially automated, encompassing tasks such as collection, recording, organization, storage, adaption, retrieval, use, alignment, indexing, sharing, dissemination, or making data available.
Reference – Section 2(x)
Understanding these key definitions provides a foundational grasp of the Data Protection Act’s terminology. As data becomes an increasingly valuable asset, comprehending the nuances of these terms is essential for individuals, businesses, and organizations to navigate the complexities of data protection effectively.
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