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What is a Data Subject? A Comprehensive Legal Overview
Definition & Meaning
A data subject is an individual whose personal information is collected and maintained by an organization, such as a government office or agency. This term is often used in the context of privacy laws and data protection regulations, which govern how personal information is handled and safeguarded.
Table of content
Legal Use & context
The term "data subject" is primarily used in privacy law, particularly in regulations that protect personal data. It is relevant in various legal areas, including:
Data protection and privacy law
Employment law, where employee data is managed
Consumer protection, relating to customer information
Individuals can often manage their data subject rights through legal forms and templates, such as those provided by US Legal Forms, which can help them navigate their rights regarding data privacy.
Key legal elements
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A government agency collects personal information from citizens applying for benefits. Each applicant is considered a data subject.
Example 2: A company collects customer data for marketing purposes. Each customer whose information is stored is a data subject. (hypothetical example)
Relevant laws & statutes
Major statutes related to data subjects include:
The Privacy Act of 1974, which governs how federal agencies handle personal data.
The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the European Union, which has influenced data protection laws in the U.S.
State-by-state differences
Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):
State
Data Protection Law
California
California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA)
New York
New York Privacy Act (proposed)
Virginia
Virginia Consumer Data Protection Act
This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
Comparison with related terms
Term
Definition
Data Controller
The entity that determines the purposes and means of processing personal data.
Data Processor
The entity that processes data on behalf of the data controller.
Common misunderstandings
What to do if this term applies to you
If you believe you are a data subject, consider the following steps:
Review the privacy policy of the organization holding your data.
Request access to your personal information if applicable.
Explore US Legal Forms for templates that can help you assert your rights regarding your data.
If your situation is complex, consider seeking legal advice from a professional.
Find the legal form that fits your case
Browse our library of 85,000+ state-specific legal templates.