What is the principle of data minimization under the GDPR?

The principle of data minimization under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) emphasizes that the data collected by organizations must be adequate, relevant, and limited to what is necessary in relation to the purposes for which they are processed. This means that organizations should only collect the personal data that is essential for achieving specific objectives and should avoid excessive data collection that does not serve a clear purpose.

This principle is crucial for ensuring individuals' privacy rights, as it reduces the risk of misuse or unauthorized access to personal data. By aligning the data collection strictly with the intended purposes, organizations can not only comply with GDPR requirements but also foster trust with individuals whose data they handle.

In contrast, options suggesting excessive data collection, indefinite data retention, or avoiding user consent highlight practices that run contrary to the foundational tenets of GDPR, focusing instead on minimizing risk to data subjects and enhancing accountability for data processors. This reinforces the importance of purpose-driven data collection, aligned with the principle of data minimization.