Data protection, meaning and history

Privacy

Data protection, meaning and history - origin of data protection

Data protection has been around for many years. Ever since we started collecting, storing and sharing data, we have had to deal with this issue. Technology is making more and more things possible and connecting us with the whole world - instantly. Personal data move from one place to the next. All these new developments open up new possibilities for data collection, but also security gaps.

Origin of data protection

Around 1960, there was a worldwide debate on data security. This was the beginning of a plan to improve the protection of our personal data. This happened at a time when John F. Kennedy was governing the USA. The aim was to create a unified, national data center to improve information security and all areas related to the topic. Personal data of all US citizens should be recorded in full.

The first data protection law in Germany

The German state of Hesse passed the world's first data protection law in 1970. The Federal Data Protection Act and the introduction of the Data Protection Commissioner followed in 1977 and the state data protection laws in 1981.

Data protection today

Data protection today is constantly being expanded by new laws and rulings. A data protection officer has a lot to do. They have to deal with the laws on a regular basis, apply them in practice and advise customers professionally and objectively. He is liable for negligence itself and is responsiblethat current regulations and legal precedents are implemented by employees and superiors.

The profession of data protection officer, is highly interesting and very diverse.