What are the core principles of data privacy compliance?

The durable ideas that show up across geography and buyer expectations, regardless of jurisdiction.

Why it matters

Principles keep you consistent as rules evolve; they’re easier to teach and audit.

Core components (with actions)

• Minimization: Collect only what’s necessary; remove unused fields; mask by default.

• Transparency: Clear notice with purpose, sharing, and contacts.

• Choice & consent: Respect local rules; record consents/opt‑outs.

• Security: MFA, least privilege, backups, and activity logs.

• Retention: Default to short; document exceptions.

• Accountability: Owners, reviews, training, and evidence (who did what, when).

Implementation basics

• One privacy owner; quarterly review.

• A single privacy inbox and DSAR page.

• A living sub‑processor list.

Common pitfalls

• Legalese without plain‑English summaries.

• Cookie banners with no enforcement.

Next steps

Publish your principles; link them in your footer. Learn more about timing by stage.