Final answer:
The data minimization principle mandates limiting data collection to what is required for a specific purpose, as this approach is critical for protecting an individual's privacy.
Step-by-step explanation:
The data minimization principle requires that data collection is limited to only what is required to fulfill a specific purpose (Option C). Data minimization is essential to safeguard personal, financial, and medical information, contributing to privacy protection. This principle mandates that only the minimal amount of data necessary for the intended use is collected, thus decreasing the risk of harm from potential data breaches or misuse.
Organizations, businesses, and researchers are obligated to uphold this principle, ensuring that any data collected serves a clear and justifiable need without overstepping privacy bounds. Moreover, it demands careful consideration of not only the type of data gathered but also its handling and disposal after its primary use to prevent unauthorized access or unintended consequences.
For example, if you are designing a website registration form, you should only ask for the information that is directly relevant to the registration process, such as name, email address, and password. Asking for additional information, such as phone number or address, that is not necessary for the registration process would go against the data minimization principle.
By limiting data collection to only what is required, you can reduce the potential privacy risks and ensure that individuals' personal information is protected.