What role does a data controller fulfill?

A data controller is primarily responsible for determining the purpose and means of processing personal data. This role involves making critical decisions about how personal information is handled, which includes defining why data is collected and how it is processed. The data controller sets the framework within which data processing activities occur, ensuring compliance with the relevant data protection laws and regulations.

While the processing of personal data, management of subject rights, and development of data protection policies are important aspects of data governance, they fall under the responsibilities that the data processor or other roles may handle once the data controller has defined the parameters for processing. Therefore, the core function of the data controller lies in deciding the objectives behind data handling and the methods by which such data will be processed, making it the key distinction that validates the choice of answer.