Sensitive personal data, also known as special category data, is a category of personal data that is considered to be particularly sensitive and therefore requires additional protection under privacy laws, including the GDPR. This type of data is typically more personal and private in nature, and its misuse or mishandling could result in significant harm or discrimination against an individual.
Examples of sensitive personal data include:
- Racial or ethnic origin
- Political opinions
- Religious or philosophical beliefs
- Trade union membership
- Genetic data
- Biometric data
- Health information
- Sex life or sexual orientation
Sensitive personal data is subject to more stringent requirements under data protection regulations.
Under the GDPR, the processing of sensitive personal data is prohibited unless certain conditions are met, such as obtaining explicit consent from the data subject, or if the processing is necessary for specific legal purposes such as public health or social security.
Organizations that collect, store or process sensitive personal data must take extra precautions to ensure that the data is secure and protected from unauthorized access or misuse.
In summary, sensitive personal data refers to a special category of personal data that requires additional protection under privacy laws, including the GDPR.
Examples of sensitive personal data include health information, religious or philosophical beliefs, and sexual orientation.
Organizations that handle sensitive personal data must take extra precautions to ensure that the data is properly secured and protected from unauthorized access or misuse.
