In the context of GDPR, what does the term "third-party" refer to?

The term "third-party" in the context of GDPR specifically refers to any person or entity that is neither the data subject nor the data controller or processor. This definition is crucial since the GDPR outlines specific roles in data processing: the data subject is the individual whose personal data is being processed, the data controller determines the purposes and means of processing the data, and the data processor carries out the processing on behalf of the controller.

Understanding this distinction is fundamental to compliance with GDPR. Third parties often include various organizations or individuals that may receive or have access to personal data from the data controller or processor. This could involve sharing data with service providers, partners, or other organizations that operate outside the direct relationship with the data subject.

The other choices do not accurately capture the specific role of a third party under GDPR. For example, while an organization that processes data may include both controllers and processors, the term "third-party" explicitly excludes these roles. Similarly, mentioning any individual or entity involved in data processing broadens the definition too much, as it might include controllers and processors as well. Lastly, referring to any government body that regulates data use does not fit within the framework established by the GDPR, as this is more related to oversight rather than the processing relationship