What does the "Security of personal information" in the APP specify?

The principle of "Security of personal information" in the Australian Privacy Principles (APP) emphasizes the obligation of entities to protect personal information from misuse, loss, and unauthorized access. This means that organizations are required to implement reasonable security measures to safeguard the data they collect or hold. This can include physical security measures, such as locked offices and secure file storage, as well as digital protections, such as encryption and robust access controls.

By prioritizing the security of personal information, entities aim to build trust with individuals and ensure compliance with privacy regulations. This principle is crucial in a digital landscape where personal data is vulnerable to breaches, and it reflects the importance of maintaining the confidentiality and integrity of personal information in the hands of organizations.

In contrast, sharing personal information freely, denying responsibility for breaches, or disclosing all information to third parties contradicts the intent of safeguarding individuals’ privacy and data protection standards outlined in the APP.