According to the Data Protection Act, what is 'data minimization'?

Data minimization is a fundamental principle established by the Data Protection Act, which emphasizes the importance of collecting only the minimum amount of personal data that is necessary for a specific purpose. This principle aims to reduce the risk of unnecessary data exposure and protects individuals' privacy by limiting the amount of personal information that organizations gather and retain.

By adhering to data minimization, organizations ensure that they only collect data that is relevant and adequate for their operations, thereby mitigating the potential for misuse or breaches of personal information. This approach not only complies with legal requirements but also fosters trust between consumers and organizations, as individuals feel more secure knowing their data is handled appropriately and not excessively.