Data Minimization
Data minimization is a privacy and data protection principle that involves collecting, processing, and retaining only the personal data that is strictly necessary for a specific purpose. It aims to limit data collection to what is directly relevant and adequate for the intended use, reducing privacy risks and potential harm. This concept is a core requirement in regulations like GDPR and is fundamental to building trust and compliance in data-driven systems.
Developers should implement data minimization when designing systems that handle personal data, such as user registration forms, analytics tools, or customer databases, to ensure compliance with privacy laws like GDPR and CCPA. It reduces security risks by limiting the data available in case of breaches, minimizes storage costs, and enhances user trust by respecting privacy. This is especially critical in applications involving sensitive information like health records, financial data, or location tracking.