Assessing Privacy Impact through Mapping the Data Lifecycle
by Patrick Oh (rewritten by Alvin Ang)
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Exploring the Landscape of Privacy Assessments: Understanding the Distinction Between Privacy Impact Assessments (PIA) and Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIA)
Introduction
Navigating the intricacies of privacy assessments can sometimes resemble the task of deciphering the subtle differences between two vital documents: Privacy Notice and Privacy Policy. This article aims to shed light on two fundamental concepts, namely Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA) and Data Protection Impact Assessment (DPIA), in order to provide a clearer understanding of their roles and distinctions.
Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA)
A Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA) represents a meticulous process designed to identify and evaluate potential privacy implications arising from either new or existing systems or practices. It serves as the initial checkpoint within the Data Flow Lifecycle, encompassing various stages such as data collection, storage, usage, disclosure, transfer, archival, and disposal.
To carry out a PIA, organizations have the option to adopt various Risk Management Frameworks, including well-regarded standards like ISO 31000 or Enterprise Risk Assessment.
Data Protection Impact Assessment (DPIA)
In contrast, a Data Protection Impact Assessment (DPIA) assumes a more specialized role, mandated by the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). DPIAs become obligatory when the processing of personal data is likely to pose a high risk to the rights and freedoms of individuals.
Instances where DPIAs become mandatory include:
1. Processes involving sensitive data that may significantly impact the rights and freedoms of data subjects.
2. Introduction of new processes.
3. Large-scale monitoring procedures affecting a broad population.
Differences Between PIAs and DPIAs
It is essential to distinguish between PIAs and DPIAs due to the following key factors:
1. Mandatory vs. General: DPIAs are mandated under GDPR specifically for certain data processing activities, whereas PIAs provide a broader assessment of privacy risks and are often utilized during initial compliance evaluations.
2. In-depth Requirements: DPIAs necessitate a more comprehensive analysis, including assessments of necessity, proportionality of processing, and anticipated risk mitigation measures.
In Conclusion
In summary, both Privacy Impact Assessments (PIAs) and Data Protection Impact Assessments (DPIAs) serve as critical tools for organizations committed to safeguarding individual privacy. These assessments enable organizations to proactively identify and mitigate potential privacy risks associated with their data processing activities, fostering trust and compliance in an increasingly data-centric world.”
About Patrick Oh
Patrick is a Singapore Certified Management Consultant providing PDPA compliance consultancy, Performance management and Solutions Design and Development.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-oh-sglion65/
About Dr. Alvin Ang
Dr. Alvin Ang earned his Ph.D., Masters and Bachelor degrees from NTU, Singapore. Previously he was a Principal Consultant (Data Science) as well as an Assistant Professor. He was also 8 years SUSS adjunct lecturer. His focus and interest is in the area of real world data science. Though an operational researcher by study, his passion for practical applications outweigh his academic background He is a scientist, entrepreneur, as well as a personal/business advisor.
More about him at www.AlvinAng.sg.
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