What does the principle of data minimization refer to?

The principle of data minimization refers to the practice of collecting only the data necessary for a specific purpose. This principle is fundamental in data protection and privacy laws, particularly under regulations such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). It emphasizes that organizations should limit the amount of personal data they collect to what is strictly necessary to achieve the intended objective, thereby minimizing risks associated with data processing and safeguarding individuals' privacy.

By adhering to this principle, organizations reduce the potential for misuse of data, enhance trust among users, and ensure compliance with legal standards regarding data collection. This focus on necessity helps to promote responsible data handling practices and mitigate risks associated with excessive or irrelevant data.

Conversely, other choices involve important principles related to data management but do not specifically capture the essence of data minimization. For instance, storing data only for a limited timeframe pertains to retention policies, while ensuring data accuracy addresses the integrity of the collected data. Sharing data with stakeholders does not relate to the concept of minimizing data collection but rather focuses on the distribution and use of already collected data.