Who is classified as a Data Subject?

A Data Subject is defined as an individual whose personal information is collected, held, or processed by an organization. This term is integral to data protection laws, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and various U.S. privacy laws, as it emphasizes the rights of individuals concerning their personal data. Recognizing a Data Subject is essential because these individuals have specific rights over their personal data, such as the right to access, rectify, and erase their information.

In contrast, the other options refer to stakeholders involved in the processing and regulation of data but do not fit the definition of a Data Subject. The organization responsible for data management is the data controller or processor, while the authority that enforces data protection laws typically does so on behalf of the Data Subjects and is not considered a Data Subject itself. Lastly, the entity that processes data on behalf of others is known as a data processor, which serves a different role in data handling than that of the Data Subject. Thus, the classification as a Data Subject pertains specifically to the individuals whose personal information is the focal point of privacy and data protection laws.