Which of the following types of personal data elements belong to special categories under the GDPR?

The correct identification of special categories of personal data under the GDPR is crucial for understanding how to handle sensitive information. Under the GDPR, certain types of data are classified as special categories because they require additional protections due to their sensitive nature.

Personal data revealing religious or philosophical beliefs, as well as data concerning health, fall into these special categories. This classification includes information that, if disclosed, could significantly affect an individual's privacy, dignity, or personal integrity. The GDPR explicitly lists these categories, which are subject to stricter processing conditions.

While data relating to personal interests and hobbies and personal financial information are certainly types of personal data, they do not carry the same level of sensitivity as the special categories mentioned in the GDPR. Therefore, they do not receive the enhanced protections that apply to data revealing religious beliefs or health conditions. Understanding this distinction is fundamental for organizations aiming to comply with GDPR regulations when processing different types of personal data.