Understanding Personal Data Under the Data Protection Act
The law defines "personal data" as any information that could identify a living person. This includes:
✔ Names & addresses
✔ Phone numbers
✔ Email addresses
What Doesn't Count as Personal Data?
Information that has been:
• Permanently anonymized
• Properly aggregated
...cannot be traced back to individuals and isn't covered by the law.
Special Category Data (Sensitive Information)
The law gives extra protection to:
✓ Racial/ethnic background
✓ Political views
✓ Religious/philosophical beliefs
✓ Trade union membership
✓ Genetic/biometric data
✓ Health records
✓ Sexual orientation/history
✓ Criminal record informationThis sensitive data has stronger legal protections due to its private nature.
Key Point: All personal data must be handled carefully, with special attention given to sensitive categories.