GDPR is often associated with pop-up cookie banners and long privacy notices that few people actually read. In reality, however, it is about something much more important: control over our own personal data.
Personal data has become one of the most valuable resources of the modern world. We use it every day when enrolling in courses, logging into university systems, using mobile applications, social media or online banking. Many of these activities are performed automatically, without reflecting on what happens to our data “behind the scenes”. This is where the GDPR, the General Data Protection Regulation, comes into play. Its purpose is not to complicate everyday life or create unnecessary bureaucracy, but to ensure real protection and control over information that relates to us. Every day we leave digital traces by logging into systems, publishing photos or sending messages. GDPR was introduced to ensure that such data does not fall into the wrong hands and is used only when there is a legitimate reason to do so.
What is personal data?
Personal data is not limited to name and surname. It includes any information that allows a natural person to be identified, directly or indirectly. This may include an email address, student ID number, image, IP address, location data or information contained in student records. In the digital world, the boundary between “ordinary information” and personal data is increasingly blurred.
GDPR in the academic environment
Universities, like other public institutions, process large amounts of personal data. This includes data related to recruitment, the course of studies, scholarships, internships, scientific research and electronic communication. GDPR requires such data to be processed lawfully, for clearly defined purposes and only to the extent necessary.
This means, among other things, that:
- students’ data may not be disclosed to unauthorised persons,
- information must be adequately protected,
- students have the right to know how their data is used.
Rights of individuals
One of the key principles of GDPR is strengthening the position of individuals whose data is processed. Everyone has the right, among others, to:
- access their personal data,
- have inaccurate data corrected,
- restrict processing in certain situations,
- Request erasure where there is no legal basis for further processing.
These are practical tools that allow individuals to better protect their privacy, also in relations with large institutions.
Data protection as a fundamental right
Personal data protection is not merely a technical or administrative issue. It is an essential element of protecting fundamental rights and freedoms, such as the right to privacy, informational self-determination and security. In an increasingly digital world, the importance of these values continues to grow.
European Data Protection Day is a good opportunity to remind ourselves that GDPR is not an obstacle, but a shield protecting our privacy in a world that relies more and more on data.