AP to Investigate Local Governments' Handling of Residents' Personal Data

By Netvora Tech News

The Dutch Authority for Personal Data (AP) is set to conduct an investigation into how local governments handle the personal data and privacy of residents. Over the coming months, the AP will examine whether local governments maintain a comprehensive and up-to-date register of personal data processing, outlining what they do with residents' personal information.

As part of the investigation, the AP will also assess whether local governments conduct risk analyses to identify privacy risks associated with processing personal data. Additionally, the AP will review the internal privacy oversight mechanisms in place through the role of the Data Protection Officer (FG).

"Having these matters in order forms the basis for a correct handling of personal data," says the privacy regulator. "Residents have a right to this. That's why the AP is going to check with local governments how things stand." Depending on the outcomes of the investigation, the AP will provide guidance on how local governments can improve their practices.

The ultimate goal of these oversight visits is to protect and safeguard people's freedom. Monitoring compliance with privacy rules by local governments is a means to achieve this. The AP is not out to punish local governments. Instead, they aim to help them improve.

The AP will examine the completeness and accuracy of local governments' personal data processing registers.
The authority will assess whether local governments conduct risk analyses to identify privacy risks associated with processing personal data.
The AP will review the internal privacy oversight mechanisms in place through the role of the Data Protection Officer (FG).

By conducting this investigation, the AP aims to ensure that local governments handle residents' personal data in a responsible and transparent manner, ultimately protecting their privacy and freedom.